Cabinet to consider controversial Whitchurch Consortium proposals tonight (From Harrow Times)

Cabinet to consider controversial Whitchurch Consortium proposals tonight

3:00pm Wednesday 20th June 2012 in News

Controversial proposals to transform a derelict pavilion into a sports complex will be considered by Harrow Council's cabinet tonight.

The Whitchurch Consortium is due to be commissioned by the authority to build a two-storey building to replace the pavilion on the fields in Wemborough Road.

Tonight's meeting at the civic centre in Station Road will see cabinet members carefully consider feedback provided during the consultation process.

Under the proposals, membership of the clubhouse will be open to all and may include facilities such as a restaurant and bar, gym, and a health and beauty centre.

Money raised by the clubhouse will be reinvested into the playing fields, which will provide sports activities from cricket to football at no extra cost to the taxpayer.

But hundreds of people are angry about the proposals, saying the new sports complex would disrupt the peace of the village and the bar would be pose a danger to pupils at nearby Whitchurch School.

The council argues that the underused playing fields are in need of regeneration and that the pavilion has become a magnet for anti-social behaviour.

Councillor Thaya Idaikkadar, portfolio holder for property and major contracts, said: “Our residents deserve excellent sports facilities and these plans will encourage the borough to live active and healthy lifestyles.

“There is a shortage of good quality outdoor sports pitches across the borough, so I am delighted to see such a tremendous level of support from the community for all our plans.”