School’s bright idea blasted

3:27pm Thursday 15th May 2008

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Angry residents are on a collision course with an Old Hill school over plans to light up a football pitch.

Heathfield Foundation Technology College, on Wrights Lane, has made an application to put up eight 15-metre high floodlights on its all-weather pitch.

The school says the lights are essential for it to comply with new government legislation on physical health, but the move has angered residents living nearby, who have already collected a petition of nearly 100 signatures against the plans.

Graham Millward, of Zions Close, said he feared floodlights would lead to increased traffic, noise and litter.

He said: "We have enough trouble with the school as it is. There are going to be more sports matches and there will be light pollution affecting our homes - we are virtually opposite it and I am very angry about it."

His wife Christine added: "They say the lights will reduce anti-social behaviour but what about when they are coming off the pitch?

"Elderly people are frightened even now."

Newly elected ward councillor Liz Bowler said she shared the residents' concerns.

Cllr Bowler added: "There are several issues which need very careful consideration including parking and the impact of the lights themselves."

A block on floodlights was imposed when planning permission was given for the all-weather pitch in 2003, meaning the £400,000 facility can only be used up to 7pm.

School principal John Parker claims this has led to the pitch being underused during the winter months and believes the lights will allow the school to follow new National Curriculum rules on the availability of sports facilities.

He said: "Not everyone is going to be pleased by it but it is needed badly.

"They are always complaining about kids on the street but there is nowhere to go - you can't have it both ways."

Mr Parker also stressed the floodlights would not be used beyond 9pm any night of the week.

The school has received support from several teams who use the facility, as well as from the police who dismissed claims the lights would increase anti-social behaviour.

In a letter to the council Inspector Denise Clarke, of Old Hill police, said: "With the expectation of increased community use during winter months, the facility would hopefully contribute to increased youth activity, and actually help reduce anti-social behaviour in the locality."

A decision on the application will be made by Sandwell Council's planning committee at a later date.

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