TENSIONS are high following approval to develop a new school for Queen Margaret Academy with a sports pitch.

The plans, which were supported last week by a majority of councillors, will see the development of an education facility, car parking and an all weather sports pitch on Dalmellington Road.

The school, will sit to the north of the current building, near Annfield Burn and Willow Park. But not everyone is convinced the development is a good idea.

But residents are concerned about noise and light pollution from during and after the construction period.

Thomas Watts, a resident of Willow Park, raised his concerns at a planning meeting at South Ayrshire’s County Buildings.

Mr Watts said: “I would like to make a submission about the plans and how it will intrude on our household.

“Willow Park is a quiet and friendly place and I would not like to destroy it. We moved into that house in 2011. 

“Had we known this was going to happen before, we probably would not have built the house. We have no objections to the proposals, they just need to proposed in the right location.”

Another objector, Jane Hunter, added: “I am representing 17 households in Willow Park. We are concerned because of what happened with the Belmont Academy development.

“Residents at Belmont have told us about the ongoing issues they have faced, with the all weather sports pitch, since the new school started.

“The pitch is supposed to close at 9pm but those who live across from the school can hear noise afterwards.

“Footballs end up in people’s gardens and residents say they experience aggressive behaviour from the players. Police have been called on more than one occasion. I suggest you read the sign in this room that states: “ne’er forget the people”.”

Cllr Ian Cavana said: “We have been here before. Objections have got to happen and I am aware of the concerns raised.”

Councillors voted to approve the school plans but Cllr Peter Convery abstained.