Dewsbury Moor clubhouse plans anger residents

Councillors said Dewsbury Moor ARLFC should be allowed to develop its facilities because of the community benefits.

The proposed clubhouse with changing and gym facilities would be 170m away from the current building in Heckmondwike Road, which would be sold.

Club committee member Michael Delaney said: “The clubhouse and changing facilities have reached full capacity and need to be updated.

“We have a rapidly growing demand to supply more activities for girls and ladies and we can’t do this because of the changing facilities.”

He said nobody came to a public meeting held to discuss the plans before submission.

But the Heavy Woollen planning sub-committee heard last Thursday that there had been six letters of objection and a 46 signature petition in opposition.

Resident Mandy Armitage said spectators often parked outside residents’ homes, and were sometimes aggressive.

Justine Keay said there had been damage to fencing and residents cars and windows.

Club chairman Pete Charlesworth said: “The only problems we have are with away supporters. We don’t want to fall out with anybody.”

Coun Karen Rowling (Lab, Dews West) said: “I understand the concern of residents, but I think the benefits to the wider community outweigh those concerns.”

The club has three years to submit a full application.