Play area to be shut over noise nuisance

The play area on Cannock's Park Farm estate, between Peregrine Way and Pheasant Way, is to be removed.

After hearing from residents about how youths gathered at the site and caused anti-social behaviour, Cannock Chase Council's planning committee ruled in January it should be dismantled. Persimmon Homes appealed the decision to the Planning Inspectorate but found out today it had not been successful.

The company refused to remove the play area until the appeal was heard, saying it was trying to find a solution that would keep everyone happy.

But the site will now have to go.

Councillors said the site, which has a "teen shelter" and a high fence to control ball games, has caused endless misery for people living nearby as it is open 24 hours a day.

Neil Owens, who lives in Peregrine Way, said more than 30 residents had signed a petition saying the play area had "made their lives hell".

Mr Owens said residents were woken by people singing and drinking.

Hawks Green councillor John Bernard also said footballs hitting a gate was a constant annoyance for residents.

He said today: "I think this is a great decision.

"Hopefully the builder can dismantle the multi-use games area and the teen centre as soon as possible.

"All of the neighbours that have had to put up with the unsightly view and the noise and disruption over the last year can have the peaceful quality of life that they expected when they purchased their properties."

The Planning Inspectorate report said: "Although the children's play area, seating and bow top fencing are acceptable, the multi-use games area is harmful to neighbours' living conditions in terms of noise and disturbance.

"Given the linked pathways and hard standing, I do not consider that the play area is severable from the multi-use games area."