The security of Spring Lane Playing Fields is essential to its future success. Classed as unattached school playing fields, they have never been a public field with open access. Currently the only legal users of the fields are local schools and member organisations that hold a user licence.
A number of local people currently use the fields, to walk their dogs, or to walk and jog around the perimeter. The access is through holes that have been illegally made in the perimeter fence, through the main gates when they are open for the club users, or via back gates to neighbouring gardens.
We would like to continue to offer access for this type of use, to responsible people and would actively encourage it, especially for the elderly, who’s daily dog walk may be their only regular exercise and opportunity to meet with others. We would also like to encourage more joggers and walkers to use the fields and enjoy the facilities on site, particularly females who may not feel safe when jogging or walking in the local streets.
The growing use of the fields by local school children, makes safeguarding a paramount concern, allowing only well-behaved dogs and considerate owners, (who clear up after their dogs) is essential, as is ensuring the field cannot be accessed by people intent on anti-social behaviour.
To meet the above criteria, access will be controlled. The perimeter fence will be improved and display access signage, it will be protected with strategically positioned movement responsive surveillance cameras.
