The Football Foundation has raised concern that a Bradford development could increase the risk of “ball strike” that could “damage people and property.”
A planning application to build a storage building on land next to Bradford Academy’s playing fields was submitted by Ignatius Staunton late last year.
The land, which fronts onto Wakefield Road, is technically classed as playing field land – but has not been used for this purpose for some time.
'Cricket ball risk assessment' needed before residential development can go ahead
Because of this classification, and the application site’s proximity to Bradford Academy’s football pitches, Sport England has been consulted on the plan.
The sporting organisation has raised concerns – including that errant volleys could lead to footballs landing in the new storage site.
Sport England’s response said: “Balls are likely to leave the playing field and land on the application site when matches are being played.
“This could lead to damage to both people and property.
“Such ball strikes have the potential to constitute a nuisance under the Environmental Health legislation.
“The applicant will therefore need to undertake a ball strike risk assessment to gauge if ball strike is likely.
“It might be that ball strike is not an issue, however without undertaking a risk assessment this issue is currently unknown.”
A decision on the application is expected later this month.
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