Bats delay stadium demolition

The decision to bulldoze the stadium was made in December because it had become a magnet for yobs since closing in July.

Cannock Chase Council cannot afford to reopen it because of the costs of maintenance. But reports by a resident of bats in the vicinity means the building in Pye Green Road cannot be knocked down until after a survey has been done.

The council's cabinet will discuss the problem on Thursday when it is expected the go-ahead will be given for a survey by a council officer.

Bob Phillips, head of planning and regeneration, said: "There have been reports of bats on the site.

"At this stage we don't think there are roosting bats in there but best practice is to verify that is the case before proceeding with demolition."

Mr Phillips said that July was likely to be the earliest any demolition work would be go ahead - assuming the survey finds no evidence of bats at the stadium.

More than £1million from the proposed sale of the stadium land for housing had been earmarked to provide a new football pitch in Heath Hayes and to improve drainage at Hednesford Park.

But the Government's decision to refuse planning permission means the council is now looking to restore two football pitches, which are currently unused on the stadium site, to try to clear a mounting backlog of local league matches.

A third pitch in the centre of the stadium will be saved but cannot be used until the building is demolished.

Councillor Mick Grocott said: "Cannock Chase Football League were happy enough with the playing pitch strategy for extensive work to be done at Hednesford Park and additional pitches at Heath Hayes.

"Everyone was quite happy about what we were doing. If the planning application had been completed and we had been able to do what we wanted to do we would not have this trouble anyway even with the inclement weather."

By Dawn Fellowes