CHINGFORD: Councillor defends park football charge (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

CHINGFORD: Councillor defends park football charge

4:09pm Tuesday 4th August 2009 in

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A TEAM of young footballers fears it may be forced to disband because the council is demanding money for the use of a playing field.

Ainslie Wood FC has been holding summer training sessions on public space behind Salisbury Hall in Chingford with no nets or pitch markings.

The team has regularly used the fields since it was formed in 2007 by Robin Philpott, of Cranston Gardens, Chingford.

Mr Philpott said he was even told by park staff that there is no fee for using the space, but the council insist the charges have been in place for some time.

He said: “We don’t want to waste fuel, and increase the CO2 in the atmosphere, by driving out of the borough to play football. Not all our players would be able to attend training.

“It is odd that this borough is going against the Government’s goals for decreasing pollution and improving youth activity.

“We aren’t bothering anybody. We are simply training, getting fitter and improving our skills.

“It is something I thought the borough would approve of with the London Olympics not far away.”

The team already hires an artificial pitch in the winter and a pitch on Wanstead Flats for its matches. Mr Philpott added: “We don’t have too much money and get by on a shoestring budget.

“With kit fees, equipment fees and league costs, there wouldn’t be a team if we have to pay every time we set foot on a local field.”

Cllr Geraldine Reardon, leisure cabinet member, said "'All teams should pay for using the facilities. We are happy to discuss the hire rates with Ainslie Wood FC, but to date they have not contacted us.”