Hundreds campaign to save sports field

More than 400 people are opposing a proposal by Greenwich Council to relocate Willow Dene Primary School to Hervey Road sports ground in Kidbrooke.

A meeting was held yesterday by residents living in Hervey Road to discuss ways they can take their campaign further.

They have already handed in a petition with 416 signatures calling on Greenwich Council to keep the ground as a sports playing field.

The 11.85 acre site is currently used by sports clubs and schools, such as Blackheath Bluecoat, Old Dover Road, Blackheath.

But the council has identified Hervey Road sports ground as one of six potential sites for a new building for Willow Dene Primary School.

The 150-pupil school, located in Swingate Lane, Plumstead, needs more space and better educational facilities for its children with special needs.

Hervey Road sports ground meets many of the council's criteria, including a central location in the borough.

But nearby residents are furious the council has not consulted them about the proposal.

Save the Hervey Sports Field Campaign leader Annie Hart, 60, who lives at East Brook Road, Kidbrooke, said: "We are being kept in the dark.

"Action needs to be taken to save the sports ground and to keep it for the community, especially with the Olympics coming up."

Kidbrooke and Hornfair councillor Andy Jennings said: "I support the residents 150 per cent.

"The council can't just pass through things without a consultation."

He added: "It's quite galling for the residents to see a picture of their street in a council report, showing an artist's impression of the school."

But the council has confirmed no decision has been made, which will be subject to a report presented to the cabinet in the near future.

A council spokesman said: "We are still in discussions with the school regarding plans for the new school.

"Once plans are developed further, we will be in discussions with residents, who will have the opportunity to comment on the plans."