I WOULD like to make some observations regarding the hard court play area in Morton Road, Pakefield.There were some surprising statements last week's Journal story, such as the reference to the 'unforeseen' nature of the noise problem.

I WOULD like to make some observations regarding the hard court play area in Morton Road, Pakefield.

There were some surprising statements last week's Journal story, such as the reference to the 'unforeseen' nature of the noise problem.

Perhaps these were foreseen by the 100 people who signed the petition opposing the scheme?

In addition, if the responsible authority had sought the advice of environmental health the area's unsuitability for ball games may have been identified before �50,000 of taxpayers' money was spent.

The hours of opening, 4pm to dusk and all weekends, seem to be seen as minimal by one of the people quoted but, surely, these are exactly the times when people living nearby are at home and might reasonably expect to enjoy some quality family time in their own properties.

I am also confused as to the idea that children have only 'the streets' as an alternative play space.

Within less than half a mile Pakefield has two areas with play equipment: Walmer Road football pitches, Kensington Gardens, well maintained and under-used, and of course the cliff top, seafront and beach; hardly a concrete jungle.

C MACKENZIE

Pakefield