A row has erupted over plans to create a BMX track on a Halesowen recreation ground.

Belle Vale ward councillors are at loggerheads over proposals for the facility at Hawne recreation ground on Stourbridge Road.

The track, aimed at young teenagers, is the brainchild of local police and Belle Vale ward councillor Jill Nicholls but has been opposed by councillors Bob James and Jennie Dunn who claim the location is not suitable.

Cllr James said both he and cllr Dunn were angry after not being consulted over the scheme and believe it could increase anti-social behaviour.

The area is currently subject to a dispersal order allowing police to break up gangs.

Cllr James said: “We are not opposed to a BMX track in the ward but if they build it there it will be far too close to housing.

“If there is money available it should be used to tidy The Scrolls up and flatten the land down – that should be the top priority.

“We have already experienced anti-social behaviour on The Scrolls and I think this will increase it.”

Cllr Nicholls, who requested the track be built last year, believes it would actually help to reduce anti-social behaviour and said the final decision lay with residents.

She said: “I think its a good idea provided residents go along with it.

“A new track does not need to be built – there is an old one there which can be improved.

“That makes it a cheaper option.”

The track would be created from mounds of earth. Consultation ended this week and the council are set to make a decision after looking at feedback over the next few weeks.

Despite the row all three councillors have said there is no truth in rumours the land could be used for housing if the BMX track is rejected.

Cllr James added: “These claims, which have been made in a leaflet, are scandalous and totally unfounded, the land is unsuitable for housing in any case. While I am a councillor it will never happen.”

A spokesperson for Dudley Council confirmed there were no other plans for the recreation ground.

The spokeswoman added: “When the consultation was initially sent out, due to an unfortunate oversight, letters were only sent to cllr Nicholls and not her fellow ward councillors.Once this was realised they were contacted.”