The redevelopment of a Ministry of Defence sports pitch in Rhu looks set to go ahead, despite objections by residents.
The site on Cumberland Road would be resurfaced with Astroturf, with floodlights and a wire perimeter fence added, if Argyll and Bute councillors follow their officals’ recommendation next week.
Rhu and Shandon Community Council joined 26 residents in objecting to the plan, with concerns including the impact of floodlighting, extra noise in evenings, possible crowds and a valuable open space being effectively locked away.
But it was supported by Rhu Primary School, whose pupils will be able to use the facility throughout the year, regardless of weather, with PE teachers said to be ‘extremely excited’ by the prospect.
A report to the council’s planning, protective services and licensing committee says that although it is in a conservation area, the development is not a change of use: “The facility as a formal recreational sports facility is being retained with the essential character remaining intact.
“It is acknowledged that physical alterations to the proposal do potentially have consequential impacts upon the character of the use of the pitch, particularly in the evenings and winter months where currently there is little activity taking place.
“However, notwithstanding this, the current situation allows the use of the playing field at any time, unrestricted from both formal and informal use and this usage can be particularly prevalent in the summer months.”
The report adds that a condition should be added limiting the times that the floodlights can be used, but adds that overall: “The site is reasonably secluded and it is considered that the refurbishment of this sports pitch “will not detrimentally affect the amenity of adjacent residents by reason of unacceptable noise or disruption.”
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