A NEW policy is being introduced to stop rowing neighbours falling out over "no ball games" signs.

More than 20 residents complained to Hyndburn Council about a sign which has gone up on land behind St Albans Road, Rishton.

The move has highlighted the conflict between residents with and without children, the leisure services committee was told.

Councillors have now agreed to take down the sign and adopt a new policy of consultation on new or replacement signs.

Attempts to ban ball games can upset parents of young children who need open space to play but cause no damage and are not rowdy. But there is a trend for residents without children to prefer ball games to be banned on grass near their homes, councillors heard.

The signs are not legally enforceable as playing ball games is not a statutory nuisance.

Police can be placed in a difficult position because they are expected to take action to stop ball games, as opposed to rowdy behaviour and criminal damage.

Until now, requests for signs have been considered individually without any formal policy or talks with residents.

In future, council officers will consult neighbouring residents, ward councillors and the chairman and vice-chairman of the leisure services committee.

Where there is no clear preference, cases will be referred to the committee for a decision.

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