Flagship £8m 3G pitch project engulfed in new row over microplastics |
They claim the proposed all-weather facility at Sloughbottom Park, in Mile Cross, will lead to vast amounts of harmful microplastics being released into the surrounding area.
The Norwich City Council scheme, which also involves a revamp of the park's pavilion, has been heralded as a "once in a generation" opportunity to boost wellbeing in one of Norwich's most deprived communities.
But the project now risks becoming engulfed in a row over its environmental impact.
A new 3G football pitch has recently opened in Cromer, similar to the one planned for Sloughbottom Park in Norwich (Image: North Norfolk District Council)
It follows growing concerns about the impact of 3G pitches and their role in releasing microplastics from their artificial grass playing surface into the environment.
Steven Land, who lives in Mile Cross, has set up a petition, which has attracted around 500 supporters, calling for the council to scrap the project.
He said it would pose a particular risk to the Wensum, which is next to the park, as well as the nearby Norfolk Wildlife Trust-owned Sweet Briar Marshes nature reserve.
Steve Land, former Green councillor and campaigner (Image: Steve Land)
"Experts are saying these pitches are one of the worst sources of microplastic pollution," he said.
"I know people who have used other 3G pitches in Norwich and they have said plastic fibres end up everywhere, in there clothes, their home, in people's washing machines. That's not........