Football club opposes council's eviction decision

1 hour ago

Anttoni James NumminenLocal Democracy Reporting Service

News image — The club has launched a petition against plans to evict the team from its playing fields

Supplied/LDRS A football team lined up for a team photo in front of a goal in a playing field. They are wearing a navy and red kit. They have a sign saying 'Save Our Club Keep Hunmanby in Hunmanby' — The club has launched a petition against plans to evict the team from its playing fields

The future of a football club is in jeopardy after a parish council said its permission to use local playing fields would end in January, its members have warned.

Hunmanby Football Club, based near Filey, has nearly 100 players and competes in the East Riding County Football League.

Keegan Kennedy, the secretary and treasurer of the club, said the news had "come as a significant shock to everyone involved".

A spokesperson for Hunmanby Parish Council said they were aware of people's concerns and would be "meeting directly with representatives of Hunmanby FC in the coming days to discuss the situation further".

The parish council is believed to be reassessing the eviction notice, with several councillors working to rescind the motion, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A meeting is expected to be held on Wednesday to further discuss the matter.

Google A playing field with a goal on it behind a hedgerow. A low building on the right with a sign on it saying Hunmanby Playing Field Association. — The club plays at Hunmanby Playing Fields

In a letter informing the club of the decision last week, the council said: "This decision follows a review by the parish council of how the playing field is being used and managed, and reflects concerns raised about the impact on other long-standing users of the site.

"It has not been taken lightly, and the council recognises this will require you to make alternative arrangements, which is why four months' notice is being given rather than a shorter period.

"We would ask that you use this notice period to identify an alternative venue for your team's activities."

However, Keegan said the club had "not yet been provided with specific details of these concerns".

Michelle Donohue-Moncrieff, a parish councillor who also represents Hunmanby on North Yorkshire Council, said: "I now have the agreement of six parish councillors - including the three who attended the meeting on Wednesday - that the minute should be rescinded.

"This would allow Hunmanby Parish Council to look at this issue again. A couple of parish councillors have also offered their time to help, which is much appreciated."

A petition opposing the decision has also been signed by more than 700 people.

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