A Welsh council has approved plans for a new 3G pitch, despite facing over 560 letters of objection from local residents. Conwy Council’s planning committee gave the green light for the artificial grass pitch at Ysgol y Creuddyn. The plan, submitted by Conwy County Council to its own planning department, sparked a significant backlash with 567 objection letters and two petitions, compared to just 39 letters of support. Nevertheless, the planning committee decided to move forward with the application.
Residents expressed concerns at a Bodlondeb meeting about potential issues such as noise and light pollution, anti-social behaviour, and environmental impact caused by the new pitch. The proposed pitch, to be located at Derwen Lane, Penrhyn Bay, behind the school, will feature six floodlights. One local resident, Elaine Evans, highlighted the impact the pitch could have on the community, citing potential noise disturbances and harm to local wildlife. She also raised issues of privacy and fears of anti-social behaviour due to the development’s proximity to residential areas.
During the council meeting, Cllr Carol Beard argued against the proposal, stating that the location of the pitch was inappropriate compared to other 3G facilities in the county. On the contrary, Cllr Julie Fallon, the cabinet member for education, emphasised the necessity of the facility at Ysgol y Creuddyn, which has been without an outdoor all-weather feature since 1981. Fallon stressed the educational benefits, citing increased sports participation and promotion of physical health and well-being.
Cllr Dave Jones supported the plans, highlighting the importance of sports for young people’s mental health. Cllr Trystan Lewis, an alumnus of Ysgol y Creuddyn, addressed concerns about proximity to housing developments, noting that the school predated the nearby homes. The council assured residents that noise concerns would be mitigated through the installation of earth berms and acoustic barriers around the pitch.
The proposed facilities will include changing areas for officials, a community space, kitchenette, and spectator area. Additionally, the project will feature perimeter fencing, storage solutions, and a modern changing pavilion with private facilities. The council’s decision to push forward with the 3G pitch project has stirred mixed reactions among residents and officials, with concerns raised over its impact on the local community and environment.
The approved construction is set to provide all-weather sports facilities for both the school and local community, offering opportunities for enhanced sports participation and promoting physical well-being. Despite the objections, the council stands by its decision to proceed with the project, aiming to cater to the needs of the school and residents, while striving to address any potential issues raised during the planning process.