Ecclesall Primary School’s plans for a multi-games area were approved despite mass objections from the neighbourhood this week.

The approval has faced backlash from the members of the local community,highlighting concerns regarding potential drainage issues, increased flooding risk, and the loss of natural biodiversity.

Tessa Lupton, a parent and campaigner, said to the BBC ” I feel absolutely devastated by this”.

Ann Blanchflower,a resident living in Edale Road , said: at the council meeting ”Flooding has been a problem for the nearby residents.”

One house owner who suffered flooding already from the area said : “Would this satisfy you if it were your house and would building a huge construction give you confidence that this would reduce or in fact increase the risk, especially using infiltration methods?”

This project was considered irresponsible and unacceptable by the residents considering that it might destroy natural grass permanently.

Councillor Tony Downing questioned the officers whether they were confident the underground infrastructure would effectively manage excess water and prevent flooding.

The  design engineer had provided assurance, supported by calculations, that the system would function as intended. Additional water storage had also been built into the infiltration structure as a precautionary measure. 

Councillor Richard Williams called the plan “ a bit of leap of faith” and asked for further options available to residents.

Councillor Laura Moynahan felt that the committee had received significant reassurance from experts and was in favour.

But Janet Ridler, a councillor, said” I do have concerns.”

Increase in noise and traffic and loss of privacy was also concern for the residents of Edale Road.

Before the final vote, Councillor Richard Williams was assured that MUGA would improve flood protection for nearby residents and the plan was approved.

The MUGA will measure approximately 45 metres by 30 metres,situated around the eastern boundary of the school,beside Edale Road.