Gloucester council chiefs have welcomed a decision to build a sports complex on a playing field in Podsmead.
The Blackbridge Charitable Community Benefit Society was granted permission to develop land at Blackbridge in Laburnum Road last week.
Their scheme includes a two-storey community and sports hub including a new building housing changing rooms, fitness studio and viewing areas, an all-weather pitch with flood lights, reprofiling of existing pitches, car parking, new vehicular access, play area, and landscaping.
But the proposals proved to be hugely controversial with nearby residents. More than 600 residents signed a petition against the plans.
And some 48 letters of objection were lodged against the scheme. Their objections included concerns over road safety and would lead to an increase in traffic, and loss of green open space which is used for free informal recreation and dog walking.
Residents have also previously described the development as a “concrete jungle” and fear it will lead to the loss of wildlife and increase noise, air and light pollution.
But planning and housing strategy cabinet member Stephanie Chambers says she believes the scheme is great for the whole of the city overall.
“As a council priority I am pleased that the blackbridge planning application was approved at the planning committee last night.
“I do understand the concerns of the residents living nearby the scheme however the planning conditions implemented on the scheme will limit any disruption to the immediate neighbours.
“On balance this is a great scheme for the whole of the Gloucester community bringing health and welling benefits to so many people in our city.”
By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter