Felling Magpies Football Club has been granted permission to expand its car park by 65 spaces in a bid to reduce congestion on neighbouring streets. The decision was made by Gateshead Council’s planning department, allowing the club to rearrange and enlarge its existing car park into an adjacent grassy area at Wardley Welfare Ground.
Council Approval and Rationale
Council officers recommended the plans for approval, noting that the land was not allocated for any specific purpose but would support the “enhancement of sports and recreation.” The council’s report stated: “The applicant submits that the enlarged car park is designed to provide additional formal parking at the club to reduce congestion and parking pressures within the surrounding residential streets, particularly on matchdays, which are usually held on weekends, with training sessions during the week.”
The report further noted: “Officers considered that the car park layout as shown, does not raise any highway safety concerns when compared to the existing situation, and in some aspects betterment is anticipated. It is considered the proposal would likely reduce the indiscriminate parking along Manor Gardens and Wardley Lane which would represent a significant betterment.”
Public Objections and Support
The plans received 53 objections from members of the public. Concerns ranged from the perception that current parking was adequate to the loss of accessible open public space. However, nine supportive comments were also submitted, expressing hope for reduced local congestion and support for the club’s work.
During the council meeting, officers answered questions from the committee before the plans were put to a vote and approved. The expansion is expected to alleviate parking pressures on surrounding streets, particularly during weekend matches and weekday training sessions.
