Protesters fighting plans for a new cricket pitch near a residential neighbourhood are expected to be bowled over by planning bosses.
Protesters fighting plans for a new cricket pitch near a residential neighbourhood are expected to be bowled over by planning bosses.
NE Derbyshire District Council has recommended approval for Clay Cross Cricket Club's new pitch, in Jacksons Fiel
d, Sharley Park — despite fears it will disturb neighbours and damage trees.
A council spokesman said: "The works will maintain the parkland character and there will not be a significant increase in overlooking on properties, or loss of amenity or safety to residents.
"The planning application does not propose any new changing facilities or parking facilities and it is unlikely to result in further disturbance for neighbouring properties."
Protesters have written two letters and signed a 19-name petition arguing that the development will change the character of the neighbourhood, especially for residents on Jackson Road.
Objections included fears that spectators would disrupt peace, quiet and privacy, create parking problems and there would be dangers to neighbours and properties from cricket balls.
But the council recommended the club's application be granted after the highways authority and Environment Agency raised no objections.
A council spokesman added: "The NE Derbyshire Local Plan and review relates to the provision of formal recreational facilities.
"It states that new pitches will be permitted provided they are acceptable in terms of traffic generation, parking, access and that they are in keeping with the area's character and served by public transport."
The club hopes to move from its existing cricket pitch in the Sharley Park grounds, off Market Street, to the newly proposed site between Pilsley Road and Jackson Road.
The council will discuss the application on Wednesday (May 28).
jon.cooper@derbyshiretimes.co.uk