A COUNCILLOR has called for a rethink on plans for football pitches to be created as part of the new health centre development in Burntwood.
The proposals for the former site of Burntwood Youth Centre at Cherry Close would also see a care home built.
But Sport England has raised concerns after the land was identified in Lichfield District Council’s playing pitch and outdoor sports strategy (PPOSS) in 2025 as being able to contain seven pitches.
Sport England said:
"The loss of playing field land has therefore not been justified by robust evidence that the land is surplus, replaced by equivalent or better provision, or outweighed by secured sports benefits.
"The planning statement acknowledges a loss of open space, but relies on the proposed three pitch layout and wider public benefits.
"However, the PPOSS evidence confirms that the site cannot be said to be surplus to requirements and identifies previous pitch provision, current and future shortfalls, and the need to protect and mitigate football provision."
Cllr Andrew Clissett, Reform UK representative for Burntwood North, said that while replacement facilities for young people were needed, he was not convinced that football pitches were the answer.
He said part of the site could be utilised for a new bike pump track instead.
Cllr Clissett said:
"If you demolish a youth service, you must replace it. With the new medical centre nearing planning completion, the spotlight is now on the future of our local playing fields.
"Sport England has raised concerns about losing pitches, but let’s look at the facts – Burntwood already has eight, nine or more football pitches across the town.
"We have three pitches left at this site. Why shouldn't one of them be transformed into a fit-for-purpose pump track for our young people?"
He said the community campaign for a pump track demonstrated a need for solutions to be found.
"The double standards need to end – £7 million is being poured into Chasewater, including revamping the castle.
"Yet, when local campaign groups work tirelessly to establish a pump track, they’re met with red tape and blockages over dam concerns.
"If we can find the resources to repair a castle, we can certainly deliver a pump track for our kids. It’s about priorities.
"Whether it's these three playing fields or Redwood Park – where talks are currently ongoing with Lichfield District Council – we need bigger, bolder thinking.
"As these site decisions transition to the district council and the future unitary authority, I will be pushing to ensure youth facilities are at the absolute top of the agenda.
"The county council demolished our youth centre years ago – and it’s time to make things right. Our kids have waited long enough. It’s time to deliver."
