A multi-use games area at Ecclesall Primary School has been approved by councillors, despite concerns from the community. 

The decision was made nearly two years after plans for the MUGA were first proposed, as a solution to the poor-quality playing field that is currently in place. 

The school, on High Storrs Road in Sheffield, is in a residential area, which raised concerns in the neighbourhood.

Residents said they had fears over the impact on the already poor quality of draining and the potential flood risk this could cause.

Ann Blanchflower, a resident of Edale Road, attended the planning meeting on Tuesday 29 April. Speaking about the impact of the proposals, she said: “We’re left with no understanding, just real uncertainties. The council and residents deserve much better than this.” 

The plans were previously considered by committee members in July 2024, but the council made a decided to defer to allow questions about drainage to be answered by a representative of the Lead Local Flood Authority, who was present for the meeting. 

The MUGA will replace a playing field, which has trouble with drainage due to its sloping nature, making it unusable for the children during wet weather. 

However, Ms Blanchflower said: “No drainage strategy has been shared with any rationale or justification.” 

Councillor Barbara Masters, the Liberal Democrat representative for Ecclesall, said: “The decision to approve the MUGA is disappointing, and residents’ fears have not been allayed. 

“Unfortunately, the decision had to be based on planning legislation so alternatives to a MUGA such as improving the existing grass surface to make it fit for purpose could not be explored.” 

The proposed MUGA is set to be 30m by 45m with 1.2 m high fencing, made up of a kickboard around the bottom and mesh fencing around the top. 

The plan outlines that the MUGA is only to be used by the primary school, for purposes such as PE lessons and after school clubs. 

Councillor Peter Gilbert, the Green councillor for Ecclesall, said: “I hope that the school will consult with local residents, parents and children to find a solution to the playing field maintenance issues without spending a £100,000 of public money on concrete and plastics.” 

This would be the second MUGA to be installed on the grounds over the past decade as part of the school’s expansion plans.