Let me say from the outset, and start my post with this:- I was
against the building of this, and could not believe the protracted nature of the planning applications. I didn't follow them closely, but was surprised that permission was granted, despite loads of well founded objections! but probably shouldn't have been!
We are where we are, I found myself visiting it t'other day, running with the dog. I was not tempted to encourage her to sh't on the pitch, as I said "'we are where we are", and having been the victim of slipping into a deposit, when I played I would hate anyone to befall such a fate!
Let me say at the outset, it is scarily close to the centre of the Doxey reserve, over looking it from a raised position. I hope there is some restriction on the times flood lights are used. As a winter sport, these are bound to have a significant effect on the avian inhabitants of the Marshes and other wildlife. But from a totally, sport facility viewpoint, it is impressive! 5 pitches, I think; one of them the latest 4G. I also saw a movable soccer goal post, which suggests other sport usage. The grass was certainly not waterlogged, despite the precipitation we have had recently. Having played on relayed pitches, this indicates the protracted time allowed for the pitch to bed in was sensible. I believe other sports are already using the facility, particularly the club, I do worry that the entrance road, Blackberry Lane? is narrow, particularly when if you have coaches coming down it. But the car park is certainly expansive. So I am impressed, just a shame it couldn't have been built somewhere else!
As I continued on home, I ran past the old clubhouse. There was a Bobby in a high viz, outside the back door standing next to police van, partially blocking the lane, I asked if I was ok to continue; he said yes. As I ran past the club I encountered three more coppers with full riot gear, helmets and shields! I didn't ask, to be quite honest, there clothing,, demeanour and a couple of rapid Alsatians in another fan, sped me on my way! Well, good to see that the club is being used, whether that be toerags after scrap, or squatters!