 Posters are in the windows of many houses near Stradey Park |
Llanelli Scarlets face an off-field battle for permission to build 400 houses on the site of their ground. The regional rugby club want to move to a new stadium on the other side of town but need to redevelop Stradey Park to raise the money.
The Scarlets claim if the move falls through it could signal the end of professional rugby in Llanelli.
But people living near Stradey say the roads could not cope with the extra traffic from so many new homes.
On Thursday the Scarlets held one of a series of information days outlining their plans to the public.
Club chief executive Stuart Gallacher said: "We've put this open day on today to allow residents to come and ask their questions.
 |  It's only a game of rugby after all and it's people's lives you are talking about here |
"I understand the local opposition - people are obviously concerned about what happens to the 16 acres we've got here."
But Mr Gallacher said by selling the land as a housing development the club could clear its debts.
It would also raise the �7m needed for its contribution towards the cost of the new stadium that was being developed in conjunction with Carmarthenshire Council.
"It's common knowledge here, as with the other regions, benefactors have supported the club for the last 10 years," added Mr Gallacher.
"That can't continue and we have to stand on our own two feet."
He said only by moving to a new stadium could the Scarlets maximise income and attract the revenue needed to break even.
 The Scarlets say they cannot afford to remain at Stradey Park |
However, many houses around the ground are displaying posters opposed to the scheme.
Some of those who attended the open day said they remained opposed to the development.
Ray Jones of the Stradey and district residents group said: "They talk as if it will be utopia and everything will be brilliant, but the reality will be totally different.
"The roads can't take any more cars as it is.
"If it means the death knell of rugby then that is very sad - I don't think it will - but it's only a game of rugby after all and it's people's lives you are talking about here."
An outline planning application for the housing development has been submitted to Carmarthenshire County Council.
Objectors have said they want the Welsh Assembly Government to call the application in. They questioned whether the council would be impartial as it is in partnership with the Scarlets in developing the new ground.
One-Minute World News 
News services
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
