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.