Social club’s tennis courts to make way for affordable homes

The courts at Lea Hall Miners Welfare Centre and Social Club have fallen into disrepair, Cannock Chase Council members have heard – and the sale of the site will help the rest of the Sandy Lane venue’s facilities remain available for the community when it is allowed to reopen after lockdown.

Councillor Olivia Lyons, who represents the neighbouring Western Springs ward, raised concerns about the loss a sporting facility in Rugeley however.

She said: “It is very clear that Lea Hall Tennis Club is an active group and the tennis court on the site in question is very much is still in use. There is a 14-strong tennis club team that regularly train on the court and, in addition to this, it is regularly used by members of the Phoenix Club, members of Lea Hall itself and there is an arrangement for regular coaching sessions to take place in partnership with the surrounding local schools.

“With these concerns in mind, I would strongly urge that a contribution from any development should be sought to improve local facilities and ensure adequate tennis provision be provided imminently within Rugeley. We cannot wait for a future review leave our local residents without facilities in the short term, particularly in light of the growing importance of exercise and outdoor sports.

"Councillors also questioned a proposed condition calling for “a contribution of £21,000 to be targeted at Hednesford Park and Cannock Park to mitigate against loss of the tennis courts”.

Ward councillor Christine Martin told Wednesday’s planning committee meeting: “I’m not here to object to the application – its social housing we need. It’s what the effect on neighbours would be I’m concerned about because there are only two visitors’ parking spaces.

“I’m also concerned about the contribution of £21,000 to be targeted at the Hednesford or Cannock areas. There is a tennis court on Ravenhill Park used by residents – £21,000 could go a long way to put it right.

“I don’t think it’s fair to take away a facility and spend the money for facilities in other parts of the district.”

The committee agreed unanimously to approve the application however – and welcomed the prospect of more affordable homes for the district.

Committee member Councillor Alan Dudson, who represents the Brereton and Ravenhill ward, said: “I think the money should be retained in Rugeley area. The first priority should be the tennis court at Ravenhill Park if it needs resurfacing.

“I think the club has a massive car park and that could be used I imagine if there were that many visitors to the houses. The building of these properties will enhance the area.”

Mark Fitzpatrick, who spoke in support of the application at Wednesday’s meeting, told the committee the club had not taken the decision to sell the land for housing lightly.

“The tennis club has 41 members. While it is not ideal, there is a club a mile away that has 50 members but availability for 180,” he added.

“The decision has been taken in the best interests of the wider club. They have 950 members, many involved in football and other sports.

“The club has serious maintenance issues – a roof issue that will be expensive to sort out. The pandemic hasn’t helped either. By them realising value from selling this land it’s going to benefit the community, helping to keep the club going.”