But club say building will go on

A Royston man has threatened legal action against the proposed development of new tennis courts on Therfield Heath.

But Royston tennis club are standing firm over the proposal, claiming that any objection is a waste of time, and that anyone who stands in the way could lead to the closing down of the club.

Carlo Zambonini has written to the planning inspectorate who passed the plans, North Herts District Council’s planning department, conservators of Therfield Heath and Royston tennis club, containing details of what he claims are “serious legal objections” to the building of the new facility.

The four parties were given two weeks to reply before Mr Zambonini made plans for an injunction to the building of the new court. He had received no reply at the time of going to print.

Mr Zambonini said: “I think building this is illegal and not in line with the law.

I feel really confident about this legal objection, and will be doing all I can.

“I have opposition to the way they applied for planning permission and the environmental concerns for the heath.”

However, Christine Knight, secretary of Royston tennis club, is convinced that the works cannot be stopped.

“We have got all the necessary permissions to go ahead, including all relevant legal permission from the department of environment, food and rural affairs.

“We also have funding from the Lawn Tennis Association, and backing from North Herts East MP Oliver Heald, Royston Town Council, the Mayor Martin Beaver, Royston rotary club and many other local organisations.

“Schools will be very disappointed if anything gets in the way, as they are all looking forward to using the courts next year.”

Mrs Knight has earmarked the end of November for the completion of the build, should Mr Zambonini not obtain an injunction.