Anger as Oakfield Sports Centre development refused

  • Video Report by ITV Channel's Sophie Dulson

Leading sports figures in Jersey have been left angry, disappointed and dumbfounded after the Oakfield Sports Centre development was refused.

Jersey's Planning Committee rejected proposals to build a new multi-sport facility - including 12 undercover badminton courts and a 3G floodlit pitch on Friday.

The decision has left several sports clubs feeling frustrated with one club saying that they have been left in a 'black-hole' in terms of what the future holds for them.

  • Julia Falle from Regent's Gymnastics describes the current predicament for the club

Jersey Minister for Sport could not understand the logic behind some of the politicians decisions.

The Planning Committee concluded that the proposed site was too big, would have an "imposing impact" on the local environment and had concerns around the traffic congestion.

The committee voted two for and two against with one abstaining but as the original recommendation from the planning officer was to refuse the votes against won.

The Department for Infrastructure, Housing and Environment (IHE) said it was "hugely disappointed" by the decision and was considering a appeal.

The current options for the IHE would include the potential re-design of the plans to make the Oakfield site more in tune with the current landscape.

  • Andy Scate from IHE suggests how the project can move forward