A local leisure centre is set to undergo an ambitious program of work to make "some of the best facilities in the region" - but one resident is concerned that this means balls will be kicked over the fences of neighbouring houses.
As part of Gateshead Council's pledge to support residents to lead a healthier and more active lifestyle, it will soon start work to upgrade the outdoor sports provision at Blaydon Leisure Centre .
This will see the installation of a brand new 3G artificial sport pitch, a six-lane athletic track and a space for jumping and throwing events.
But Harty Ervine raised fears this would result in balls "flying" into the gardens of neighbouring properties.
"Some of the Copse houses back onto the actual playing field area. Previously rugby and football was stopped on the area as the balls flew over into gardens," he said.
"As well there is the problem of light pollution."
A spokesman for Gateshead Council reassured residents that the facilities would be fenced in reducing the chance of rogue balls crossing boundaries.
He said: "This development, funded by the Premier League, the FA Facilities Fund and Gateshead Council, will help develop grass-roots sport by providing some of the best facilities in the region.
"While we acknowledge the concerns of local residents, the construction will occupy the footprint of the existing ageing sports pitch and athletics track on the site and will not additionally encroach on neighbouring properties.
"In addition, the new facility will be surrounded by a five-metre high cage, with a new two-metre high perimeter fence around all sports pitches, further reducing the chance of rogue balls crossing boundaries. "
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