Public uproar over new sports pitch proposals Consultation extended for controversial £ 1m plans
Furious residents have forced council chiefs into an all- weather pitch climb down.
The long- awaited multipurpose facility is set to transform sport in Carrick but an uproar of complaints over where the new pitch would go has seen councillors extend their consultation comments deadline.
A public discussion on potential locations for the allweather pitch- which will cost the best part of £ 1million - was held earlier this month with over 200 people attending to have their say.
But last week’s community council meeting sparked debate causing councillors to allow residents extra time to voice their concerns.
A l l t h r e e c o u n c i l representatives were adamant no decision for the pitch - which has a budget of £ 850,000- has been made yet.
Councillor Alec Clark said: “There’s been no decision made.
“The whole point in the consultation was for people to put forward their points of view.
“We’re trying to promote health.
“We are the only place in South Ayrshire who do not have that facility.
“No matter how many people you please you can’t please them all.
“It has to go somewhere. “We’re talking about a sports facility- it’s not a jail for criminals. “It’s a good thing.” Among the sites in discussion are Hamilton and Victory Park.
And parking issues have also raised some concerns.
Speaking about the suggestion of Victory Park, one community council member asked: “Where are they going to park?
“Someone suggested people would park at the school but what I’m saying is it seems a strange suggestion to park at the Academy and walk over.
“I think it would be nice to take parking into consideration.”
Cllr Peter Henderson replied: “That’s only if it’s going on that site.
“Part of the consultation would be to get the drainage system right.
“As everyone who lives in Girvan knows it floods.
“But it could be at Hamilton Park.”
Cllr Alec Clark added: “If anyone wants to make a comment- submit it to me or Peter.”
• Comments on potential locations and the general need for the project are now being accepted until Friday, November 16 via email: pds@ south- ayrshire. gov. uk or through a comments sheet which can be found at the Girvan Customer Services Centre at 17- 19 Knockcushan Street, Girvan, KA26 9AG.