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HomeNewsCouncillor 'delighted to see progress' as delayed Parklife plans inch forward

Councillor ‘delighted to see progress’ as delayed Parklife plans inch forward

By John Baron

Delayed plans to transform dated sports facilities at Woodhall Playing Fields into a ‘Parklife’ community sports hub have this week moved a further step closer to reality – three years after receiving full planning permission.

Planning was granted in March 2022 for a new community sports hub with changing facilities, a community cafe, reception area and meeting rooms with associated car parking at Woodhall Playing Fields.

This week some movement occurred when applicant Leeds City Council applied to vary a condition attached to the planning consent to allow for the inclusion of an energy sub-station required for a revised energy strategy.

The movement has been welcomed by Councillor Andrew Carter (Cons, Calverley & Farsley), who said: “I’m delighted to see progress.

“I’m afraid it’s been far too long and drawn out but this sports hub, along with the community facilities provided, will be a huge boost.

“It’s what many of us set out to achieve way when I persuaded the council to buy the land from Bradford University when they put it up for sale. Let’s hope to see more progress soon.”

Plans were first submitted five years ago but no timescale has been provided on when work will start. A contractor to carry out the main works has yet to be appointed.

The scheme is part of the national Parklife initiative to improve football pitches and facilities. 

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2 COMMENTS

  1. Unfortunately these Parklife hubs are completely outdated. The proposed rubber crumb tyre waste infill on each pitch is already banned across the EU because of significant microplastic pollution. Banned by the EU for risks to human health and the environment. Players ingest, inhale and absorb the tiny black rubber particles through cuts and grazes. Rubber crumb particles contain carcinogens and many other harmful chemicals. Leeds City Council are totally aware of the EU ban and the impending DEFRA restriction due in the Spring. The plastic grass carpets also shed a significant amount of additional microplastics into the environment and are PFAS products. PFAS is also harmful to human health and the environment. It remains a priority substance for restriction by UK REACH along with rubber crumb microplastics. This week the Guardian has published a number of articles regarding PFAS if anyone wishes to learn more. Leeds City Council should be investing in better designed natural grass pitches which is the safest playing surface for players, particularly children vulnerable to chemical pollution. The Council is knowingly polluting a community.

  2. Wonder how much the land would be worth if had planning permission for housing. Would be a nice boost to the councils dire financial situation.

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