ANGRY residents are petitioning against council plans to build a BMX track in Hornfair Park.

Campaign against the Park Proposal (CAPP) Crusade is against the building of the track, fearing it will cause an increase in crime at the park in Shooters Hill Road, Woolwich.

Campaign manager, Toni Hale said: “ So far we have 500 signatures on our petition. There is just no need for a BMX track in the park. It could lead to an increase in crime and there are already other tracks in the borough.”

On March 3, Greenwich Council submitted plans for preparatory works for a BMX track and artificial cricket wicket.

A spokeswoman for the council said: “Greenwich council is responding to the needs of young people and is currently consulting local residents over plans to regenerate Hornfair Park, as part of our plans to secure an Olympic Legacy for all to enjoy.

"The proposal for a BMX park is being developed under the supervision of the British Cycling Federation. It has the support of Greenwich Police as there is significant and credible evidence that sports schemes are extremely effective in cutting youth crime. Exhibitions setting out the plans have been held at Charlton House and the Eltham Centre."

"Should the scheme get the go ahead, local young adults will benefit from fantastic training to enable them to take part in the sport.

"They will also be given the superb opportunity to use the Olympic BMX facilities after the London Games.

"Moreover, Hornfair Park is set to benefit from first class new rugby, football and cricket pitches as well as changing rooms and will be refurbished to nationally recognised ‘Green Flag’ award-winning standards. The council also hopes to modernise the park’s historic Lido and turn it into an outstanding heated 50-metre pool."

She added: “The council is continuing to talk to local residents about the plans and is due to meet some of the petitioners to discuss the situation further in an effort to address their concerns.”