A Gloucestershire cricket club has been granted permission for a new pitch despite strong opposition from dozens of local residents.
Dumbleton Cricket Club wants the new pitch as they have seen an increase in the amount of cricket being played at Dairy Lane and currently cannot fit in all their home games.
They currently have to hire the cricket grounds in Stanway and Broadway for all their third side’s home matches and more than a third of their junior and women side’s games.
But more than 40 people objected to the plans for a new pitch within the grounds of Dumbleton Hall which include a moveable scoreboard and temporary electric wire fence around the field of play and square to prevent the incursion of animals.
The objectors say the new pitch will lead to an increase volume of traffic, disrupt the rural tranquillity and the fencing will detract from the natural beauty of DUmbleton.
Parish council chairman Jim Harmsworth Cowles called on Tewkesbury Borough Council to reject the plans.
He told the planning committee on April 19 the plans were unwanted by residents and sets a precedent for development in the area of outstanding natural beauty.
“The club is a welcome part of the community and can thrive but not at the expense of what makes Dumbleton unique and against residents’ wishes.
“It should be refused and the parish council urges you to do so.”
Resident Nick Towe said the proposals would have an impact on wildlife in the area.
He said the manicured cricket pitch would stand out in the area along with cars parking on the ground.
“The parkland is widely used by visitors and residents for recreation and this proposal will fence over 40% for more than half of the year.”
Natasha Da Silva, speaking in support of the plans, said the pitch will be used during the cricket season from March to October.
She said: “Since its inception in 1885, Dumbleton Cricket Club has had a rich history and has always been a focal point for the community.
“In recent years, there has been a considerable increase in the number of cricket being played in Dumbleton.
“With an ever increasing programme for cricket, it is no longer possible for the single existing pitch at Dairy Lane to accommodate the level of home matches it is arranged to host each season.”
Councillor Andrew Reece (C, Cleeve St Michael’s) said the committee should go with the council officer’s recommendation and grant permission.
And Cllr Jim Mason (C, Winchcombe), who seconded the proposal, said: “They are not building a new Lord’s Cricket Ground there, are they?
“They just want a cricket square, an electric fence which you could put up at any time to keep livestock out and a moveable scoreboard which will come in and out when the games are played.
“It’s a way of country life, the village cricket team. It’s not doing any harm at all.”
The committee voted unanimously to approve the scheme.
By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter