Signs banning football could be torn down in North Ayrshire schemes after Rangers legend Kris Boyd said they stop kids playing the game.
Bosses at the council want to remove 44 ‘No Ball Games’ signs in estates in the area.
They were originally erected following complaints about playing and “low level anti-social behaviour” according to a council paper.
Last year ex Kilmarnock and Rangers legend Kris said children are not allowed to kick a ball in the streets unlike in South America. The 36-year-old complained ‘no ball games’ signs are everywhere.
Blasting the lack of encouragement for youngsters he complained that playing the beautiful game is costly and a middle class pursuit on Sky Sports.
On Tuesday North Ayrshire councillors were due to decide on whether the offending signs should come down.
Before they are removed officers would meet residents to explain why if necessary.
Officers intend to work with the community and the police to sort out any problems of anti-social behaviour, which sparked the signs.
A council paper said: “In September 2019, footballer Kris Boyd cited ‘No Ball Games’ signs as one of the reasons that this generation of children no longer play football within their communities.
“There is also some concern regarding the negative impact these signs can have on children exercising their right to play.”
It added: “Removing ‘No Ball Games’ signage will ensure council land is available for play and will encourage children to play and spend leisure time outside in their local community.”
It is also proposed that no more signs would go up in the future.
