Objection to proposed development Astro Pitch - Greenhills Park

We, the residents of Greenhills strongly oppose the proposed construction of an artificial (astro) pitch on our local green fields.

Our green fields are more than just open space — they are natural, shared, living parts of our community. They provide a safe place for children to play, for families to gather, and for wildlife to thrive.

?? Why We Say NO:

❌ 

Loss of Natural Green Space

• Replacing grass with plastic turf means destroying natural land that supports birds, insects, and biodiversity.
• Once it’s covered in plastic, it’s gone — and almost impossible to get back.

❌ 

Environmental Harm

• Astro turf is made from plastic and rubber that breaks down into microplastics, polluting the soil and local water.
• Artificial surfaces absorb heat, creating dangerously hot conditions in summer.

❌ 

Noise Levels

Ball Impact Noise:

• The sound of balls hitting the hard synthetic surface or surrounding fencing can be much louder than on natural grass.
• Repeated bouncing, kicking, and rebounding off boards or fences adds to the issue.

Footfall and Movement:

• The surface amplifies the sound of footsteps, particularly when players wear studded boots.

Player Noise:

• Intense games often involve shouting, coaching instructions, and cheering. This can be more concentrated and carry further due to open pitch layouts.

Extended Usage:

• Because artificial pitches don’t wear out like grass, they’re used more often — often from early morning to late night — increasing the duration of exposure to noise.

Hard Surroundings:

• Metal fencing and barriers often surround astro turf pitches and can amplify or reflect sound

❌ 

Health Risks

• Children and athletes playing on astro pitches face higher injury risks, including burns, scrapes, and joint injuries.
• Many artificial turfs contain toxic chemicals, including PFAS, which are linked to serious health issues.

❌ 

Not a Long-Term Solution

• Astro turf needs replacing every 8–10 years and creates tons of plastic waste.
• It’s expensive to maintain, clean, and eventually remove — putting pressure on local budgets.
•  

✅ What We Want Instead:

• Keep our natural green fields – improve drainage and care if needed, but keep them real and green.
• Invest in sustainable, safe, and community-friendly spaces that everyone can enjoy — not just sports teams.
• Involve the local community in decisions that impact our shared spaces.

??️ Our Message to Decision Makers:

We don’t want plastic pitches.

We want clean, green, natural fields.

We want nature, not plastic.

We want to be heard.