I AM writing in desperation concerning the planned sports complex opposite Talbot Road, Accrington, on school playing fields in front of many private dwellings in our area.

This is a quiet, secluded area except for the occasional school football matches and other school games, but these are usually arranged well away from the houses and never at night.

The sports centre would have a bar selling alcohol, open to 11pm every night. We all know the effects of alcohol and hooliganism and we are really afraid of the threat to security.

The tree screening, which is mentioned on the plans, would only partially isolate the sports centre from our houses in Talbot Road and would also provide ideal cover for burglars and the like.

The existing fence would not prevent access, schoolboys persistently break it and there are always gaps in it.

As well as floodlighting reaching the houses, the bad language and shouting, which is a feature of all football matches, would lower the tone of the neighbourhood.

The overflow parking would also be a nuisance. We get this now from unofficial footballers, but there would be six football pitches and a running track open every night, until 11pm.

L FRYATT (Mr), Talbot Road, Accrington.