Plastic pollution fears over proposed 3G pitch

Wildlife campaigners have intervened in plans to build an artificial sports pitch fearing it could lead to plastic pollution at protected sites.

The all-weather pitch is part of a wider £8m revamp at Sloughbottom Park in Mile Cross, Norwich, to improve access to sport.

However, Norfolk Wildlife Trust (NWT) has urged Norwich City Council to reconsider due to fears microplastics could spread into the surrounding area, with the park close to Sweet Briar Marshes and the River Wensum.

In a meeting, Labour's deputy council leader Emma Hampton said the local authority would explore measures to contain microplastics and ways to prevent infill escaping from the site of the pitch.

In a statement submitted to the council, a spokesman for the wildlife charity said: "We're excited about the opportunities for enhancing biodiversity and supporting nature within the wider package of improvements at Sloughbottom Park.

"However, we object to the proposed application for a 3G pitch due to the potential spread of the rubber infill into the wider environment."

Alongside a 3G football pitch, the council's plans include a sports hub, play area, improvements to the BMX track and refurbishment of the existing pavilion.

Carli Harper, Labour cabinet member for finance and major projects, said the local authority wanted to create more opportunities for young people to get fit.

But the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs have said 3G surfaces are the "main source of intentionally added microplastic pollution in the UK".

The wildlife trust has urged the authority to complete more assessments about the risks of microplastics entering the environment and undertake measures to reduce the spread of the rubber infill.

People can have their say on the proposals as part of a consultation.

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