ANGRY residents gathered to sign a petition against plans to build a football stadium off Peaks Parkway.
Councillor Andrew De Freitas led the petition opposing plans for Grimsby Town's new football stadium and a retail park to be located on an area of land between Peaks Parkway and Weelsby Avenue.
Mr De Freitas, Liberal Democrat councillor for the Park Ward, said: "The main reason why I am against the plans is because the land was set like it is strategically to separate Peaks Parkway and Weelsby Avenue.
"I will get as many signatures as I can over the next couple of days and pass it onto the council leader Chris Shaw.
"It shouldn't be built here and it's important to have green land to save for our future generations.
"The area of land is right next to a peaceful area; the crematorium and cemetery.
"So it's important those people can have peace and quiet, rather than football fans shouting.
"I am totally against this development because it would be inappropriate to build it there. Areas like this need respect."
Part of the land proposed to be built on is an Peaks Lane Allotments.
Marie Newman, 68, of Ainsley Street, Grimsby, has been an allotment holder for 11 years.
She said: "I have four allotments here and I grow my own fruit and veg.
"It has made me healthier and I get good exercise from it.
"I would be very upset if the land was taken over by a football stadium."
Martin Jacklin, 69, from Grimsby, said there is a lot of wildlife at the allotments.
"I feed squirrels, pheasants and blackbirds regularly – they have become friendly," she said.
"I have also seen newts which are an endangered species."
Some residents are also worried about extra traffic.
Gwen Webster, of Weelsby Avenue, said the traffic already gets backed-up during school pick-up time and funerals.
She said: "We do not need anymore traffic coming down the Avenue because we already have enough with the crematorium and school.
"It rules my life because sometimes I cannot get out of the drive with all the cars, so I have to go out before all the build-up."
Councillor DeFreitas wants to hear your views on the topic. You can call him on 01472 358090.
Grimsby Town director John Fenty said: "What concerns me is that Councillor De Freitas does not seem to recognise the need for the football club to relocate. Wherever you have a relocation of this site it is going to cause public anxiety. What is important is that during the planning process people's concerns are recognised and those issues are resolved."
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