Campaigners have launched a petition against a plan to build a 3G pitch for sports in Earley.
Last year, Wokingham Borough Council announced a plan to build a new 3G sports pitch in the area, with Laurel Park being viewed as a preferred option.
However, campaigners and neighbours have argued the pitch will result in the loss of green space, and have a negative impact on the nearby Maiden Erlegh nature reserve.
Now, the Earley Liberal Democrats have set up a petition calling for the council to consider alternative locations.
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Councillor Mike Smith (Liberal Democrats, Redhatch) said: “Earley Liberal Democrats have had a good look at the impacts on the neighbourhood, including the Maiden Erlegh Nature Reserve, traffic and parking, and the effects on nearby residents.
“We do not believe Laurel Park is a suitable location.
“We share many residents’ disappointment that they have not yet been consulted.
“We believe that, by working with residents, Wokingham Borough Council could find a suitable site in Earley, to deliver a first class and much needed facility.
“But Laurel Park is not that site!”
You can sign the petition here.
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The plan to build a new 3G pitch has been in the pipeline for some time.
In June last year, Wokingham Borough Council’s executive committee unanimously approved £300,000 in funding to build the pitch as part of the council’s leisure strategy.
The pitch will cost approximately £800,000 in total, with the remaining £500,000 of funding coming from the Football Foundation.
Also, 40-50 car parking spaces would be created for visitors.
At the time, cllr Pauline Jorgensen (Conservative, Hillside) argued that the 3G pitch is much needed for sports teams such as Laurel Park FC, which she said would be “absolutely delighted” to get the new pitch.
More recently, cllr Parry Batth (Conservative, Shinfield North), the council’s executive member for leisure said: “With demand from grassroot football clubs continuing to outstrip local availability it’s important we can create new all-weather 3G pitches to meet demand and help people keep active and well throughout the year.
“We’re looking at where these could be located across the borough, with the Council’s Executive considering Laurel Park as a preferred option last summer.
“We’re currently carrying out feasibility studies to assess the site in more detail before making any decisions or starting design work.
“Should we decide to move forward with a new community facility at Laurel Park it would be subject to obtaining full planning permission, including engagement with local residents, and detailed environmental studies.”
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Neighbours in Earley have suggested that the new pitch be built at Maiden Erlegh School, the Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Chalfont Park or Sol Joel Park.
Cllr Batth clarified that Laurel Park was one of a range of locations for the pitch being considered in the borough.
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