Anger and disappointment has overcome the Hanworth community following the council's decision to grant planning permission for the sports development on Nallhead Road.

Despite more than 600 people signing a petition in just nine days, which was handed in at a recent council meeting, it seems the concerns of residents have fallen on deaf ears to pave the way for football pitches, basketball and netball courts - on unspoilt land.

The development by Powerleague has riled the people of Hanworth who strongly believe building the clubhouse will mean residents will be forever blighted by noise and traffic pollution as well as draw in anti-social behaviour.

John Wimsett, who has lived in Hanworth for 60 years, said: "Hounslow council are very well aware of the depth of feeling the Nallhead Road development has caused, and their response has been emphatic proof on how much effect the petition signed by 613 people had, “absolutely none”. 

"These 613 signatures were obtained all within a half mile radius of the Nallhead Road development, this equates to 90% plus level of people who do not wish this development to take place. 

"How the council defends its decision not to enter into any dialog to find out why the people do not wish this development, is truly amazing given that this is supposed to be a democratic society. 

"After all, they were voted in to look after our interests and listen to our concerns."

Proposed development on Nallhead Road

A council spokesperson said: “The planning committee listened carefully to the petitioners’ concerns at the time of its decision to grant consent (26 June). 

"As a result, the committee demanded several safeguarding conditions which will address the issues raised, including strict compliance with opening hours and that there will be no parties and loud music.

"The latest petition was handed in September.”

Among the other comments there was a strong sense that people felt let down by the council.

Jane Biss who was shocked to hear the decision made by Hounslow council after she returned from a holiday, said: "This just shows the feelings of local residents do not count for anything. 

"Why do we need all these extra sports facilities which will only be popular for a limited period and once the novelty has worn off the area will then fall into disrepair, just as the other local sports facilities which were available when I was growing up in Hanworth, i.e.  tennis courts, putting green, bowling green to name just a few which were situated in rectory meadows. 

"These were popular for a few years and then disappeared due to lack of interest and support.

"My feelings are that the council are pampering to the few (which may not all be local residents) and ignoring the feelings of the neighbourhood.

Julia and Ken Powell of Osborne Close, added: "The council has stated ‘some residents’ disagree with the decision to build a sports facility on this site. 

"Frankly this is a complete understatement.  All signatures are from residents who live within close proximity of the proposed site and 613 signatures equates to more than just ‘some’. 

"Let’s not forget, these are the people who live here and will be for ever blighted with noise and light pollution, traffic congestion and anti-social behaviour. 

"The council planning committee has totally disregarded the feelings and real concerns of the local residents."