Residents fighting plans to put up a giant fence around a school field are to try to get government protection for the land.
Cardinal Newman Catholic School has begun consulting over its plans for a 3m fence around its sports field, which staff say is needed to keep pupils safe.
The scheme has been suspended after residents learned of the move in The Argus and launched a petition.
Nearby residents are now exploring the option of applying for the playing fields in Old Shoreham Road to be given village green status to protect their future.
James Kilmartin, the acting headteacher at Cardinal Newman, said: “We have withdrawn it – for the time being – to review the contributions made by members of the public and their representatives during the consultation process.
“Once we have reviewed the material we will then make a considered response.
“We also intend to invite local councillors and other representatives to a meeting at the school to discuss the issues that have arisen from the consultation process.
Student safety
“However, we still remain very concerned about the risks to the health and safety of our students and we may well decide to resubmit the application for planning permission to build a fence in the near future.
“If we can respond to local concerns, while protecting the health and safety of our students, we will.”
Local resident Louise McCurdy was one of those who organised a meeting on Tuesday.
She said there was a great community spirit and the group was still exploring options to ensure the fence plans do not get back onto the table.
Mrs McCurdy said she welcomed the opportunity to meet with the school and discuss the proposals.
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