Act now to save your playing fields from sell-off

In 1999 “Prairie playing fields surplus to requirements” was the statement from Burnley Council. A 2,500-name petition opposing any sell-off triggers an independent report.
By The Newsroom
Published 26th Jul 2013, 19:34 BST
Prairie Playing Fields in Burnley. Photo Ben ParsonsPrairie Playing Fields in Burnley. Photo Ben Parsons
Prairie Playing Fields in Burnley. Photo Ben Parsons

A consultant’s report recommended the playing fields should remain in public ownership. Now, 13 years down the line, we hear big ambitions for the Prairie, that’s what people power did.

The same situation has come along at the playing fields in Kiddrow Lane/Byron Street which are up for sale. I say to the people of these areas “petition now”, get together and stay together for the sake of the kids. They have nothing in this area, everything has gone.

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It’s easy to sell then suffer the consequences a decade later when the kids have nowhere to go and nothing to do.

Prince William said we must protect our playing fields, somewhere for children to play is a right not a luxury. Mr Cameron said “We believe our playing fields should produce the next generation of Olympic heroes”, but only if pounds, shillings and pence don’t come first. So write to the Sports Minister and Sport England and get the ball rolling.

P. Ingham

Sycamore Avenue, Burnley

Related topics:Burnley CouncilSports MinisterBurnley