(Image: Local Democracy Reporting Service)
A CAMPAIGNER has welcomed Bradford Council's plan to possibly build a sports venue at a neglected site.
Last month, the council said it was in the early stages of planning for a new facility on land at Scotchman Road in Heaton.
The site used to be a popular community space, including an astroturf pitch, before it fell into disrepair and became a magnet for crime.
Green Party campaigner Hamza Rehman recently launched a petition - which attracted more than 1,000 signatures - calling for new life to be breathed into the land.
Mr Rehman said: "To hear that the council could possibly put any kind of investment into a place like this makes me really happy.
"We've heard lots of promises over the years, though.
"What we really need now is the council to deliver."
Mr Rehman said he other other residents were "sick" of anti-social behaviour at the site.
"I've picked up around 100 gas bottles from here myself," he added.
"This was a space where people came together, where kids played and friendships were made.
"Nobody who grew up around here wants to see it like this.
"More than 1,000 people have signed the petition I started because they know what this facility meant to this community and what it could mean again."
When asked about plans for the site last month, Councillor Ian Walker, Bradford Council's executive member for neighbourhoods and communities, said: "We are currently working with funding partners on a potential redevelopment of the former Scotchman Road site as a sports venue.
"The process is in its infancy, and initial surveys are yet to be concluded.
"We will consult with local groups if the project is viable.
"If it is not viable, we will look to work with local communities on a potential community-led project."
Mr Rehman said the need to repair the Scotchman Road site was even greater now the Reform-led council had scrapped plans for a leisure centre at nearby Squire Lane - which were first proposed over a decade ago.
"The minute this place gets new life, I can promise that it will be used really well," he added.
"I used to play here when I was a kid and it was incredibly popular.
"There are lots of families locally who have a connection to this astroturf - and we want to keep that connection alive."