A number of residents have recently contacted me about an application to build a 3G sports pitch in the grounds of Kemnal Technology College. The proposal, which goes before the Plans Sub-Committee at Bromley Council on Thursday 2 April, would be jointly funded by the FA and the Football Foundation and would be expected to provide at least 85 hours of use over a 7 day week.
Although no one wishes to deny the students of Kemnal College the opportunity of an improved sports facility, it is clear that the plans will largely cater for others outside the local area. Given that an estimated 128 people would be on site at any one time, the pitch would be in use until 10:00pm on weekday evenings, and would be situated a mere 50 meters away from neighbouring houses - against the FA’s own guidelines - I feel the proposal would come at too high a price for local residents.
The associated noise, traffic and light pollution would have a detrimental impact on households in Cray Valley West, and as a result, I believe it is an inappropriate location for expansion. I have, therefore, written to Jim Kehoe, Chief Planning Officer at Bromley Council, to outline the concerns that have been raised by local residents, which I share, and to put on record my objection to the proposal. I have attached a copy of my letter to Mr Kehoe below, and will, of course, post any updates on my website as and when they become available.