Plans to replace a fence surrounding St Aloysius College’s sports ground, Hurst Avenue, N6 has been met with stiff opposition from local residents and Crouch End ward councillors.

The proposal is to erect a new 1.8m high palisade fence and gate to improve the security of the sports ground. However local residents are concerned that the solid fence will attract greater levels of vandalism and graffiti, and will destroy the amenity value of the playing fields for local residents

Crouch End councillor David Winskill, a former pupil at St Aloysius College, has backed the calls of local residents. However he says that the schools security concerns must be addressed to and has offered to set up a meeting with residents, Council officers and the school to find a solution to the problem.

Cllr Winskill (Crouch End) comments:

“St Aloysius’ playing field is a wonderful green oasis in the middle of a built up area – its amenity value cannot be over-estimated. However, vandalism has plagued the playing fields for many years and cost the College a great deal of money. I am sure that there is a way through this that reconciles security needs with maintaining the sense of space enjoyed by residents and visitors.”