A bid to build the country’s first learning-by-doing area at a primary school in Bradford has cleared the next hurdle.

Staff at Lower Fields Primary School, East Bowling, have long been planning for the kinaesthetic learning park on part of a sports field adjacent to the school.

The enclosed outdoor learning area will be a unique, open-air space bordered by steep grass mounds and fencing. It will be used by children to learn through physical activity by being laid out for different sports, as well as being used for drama. The space would also be open to other schools within walking distance and would benefit around 2,000 children.

Sporting body Sport England objected to the scheme on the grounds that it would lead to the loss of part of a playing field, and would not recognise this new type of learning area as an exception to the rule.

But the panel agreed to overrule this and refer the application to the Regulatory and Appeals Committee, recommending that it be passed.

If successful, the further committee will need to refer the matter to the Government Office for the region.

In making a decision, chairman of Bradford Planning Panel, Councillor David Robinson praised the application, saying: “I am so grateful there are people like this to bring applications of this kind for the right reasons. I appreciate that Sport England have to put in an objection, but the law is an ass on some occasions.”

The school’s sustainability manager Tricia Harwood said: “I am thrilled with today’s decision and also overwhelmed by the amount of support we have received from so many people.”

Head teacher John Edwards said: “For a number of years, it has been a dream of mine to establish such a resource and I am so grateful to all those who have enabled the vision to become a reality. I can’t wait to see how the park takes shape.”