CIVIC chiefs met sports club members this week to discuss concerns after more than 60 people objected to plans for the new Winchester Sports and Leisure Centre.

The window for feedback on the planning application closed on Wednesday, with Winchester City Council scheduling a meeting for next Wednesday to consider ‘important design issues’ as a result.

Residents have objected to four issues surrounding the facilities at the proposed £38million facility, with the majority of letters appearing to be identical.

However, concerns have also been raised about a possible increase in traffic, despite a push to improve the city’s air quality, and flooding.

Controversially, the decision was taken to build an eight-court sports hall, rather than 12, which critics argue “will be too small.”

Objectors argued that the 1.2m-high rebound boards that would line the wall would create safety issues, that using glass walls to allow natural light would mean players could be facing into the sun, and complained over seating provision.

There were also fears that one of the long jump pits would be lost, but it has been clarified that this is not the case.

On Monday evening, councillors met with clubs to hear concerns and allay fears.

It was clarified that the glass would be facing east, meaning the sun would not be shining directly through the window during likely playing periods, and that darkened blinds would be provided.

Meanwhile, temporary seating could be brought in to meet demand when it was needed.

Concerns have also been raised over possible flood risks to neighbouring homes, with solicitors acting on behalf of Peter and Gill Clarke, and Richard and Diane Baylis, both of Chilcomb Lane, warning compensation could be sought if the street was negatively affected.

The council says it will take measures to reduce flood risk.

Around half a dozen letters of support were also lodged over the planning application, which is expected to go before a planning committee in September.