LIBERAL Democrats have launched a petition against the likely closure of a popular sports field for 16 months due to the Olympics.

Drapers Field in Leyton could be shut off to the public between September 2011 and December 2012 while it is used as a car park and "holding area" for the Games.

The closure, which has been agreed in principle by cabinet, is subject to a consultation and compensation package from the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA).

Under the proposals, the land, which is visited by an estimated 9,000 people a month, will be fenced off and covered with "hard landscaping".

The council says it is line to get a "substantial" compensation package from the ODA in return for the lease of the land, which it could then re-invest in other facilities in the borough.

But critics have slammed the proposal and are concerned about the long-term implications if a deal is done.

Lib Dem leader Cllr Bob Sullivan said: "It's a disgrace. We're supposed to be an Olympic borough but we're closing down one of the few well-used areas for sport."

Cllr Chris Robbins said: "The Games are understandably going to cause some disruption locally but the council is looking to make the most of this once in a lifetime opportunity.

"Using Drapers Field as a holding area could potentially result in significant improvements to an area which is in need of regeneration. This is what we will now have to decide.

"We want the best for local people and any deal would have at its centre a condition that the community will feel the benefits when the site is returned to the borough."

"It is unlikely that we will ever have this opportunity again to revitalise one of older pieces of green space and it would clearly be irresponsible of the Council to not consider taking advantage of investment worth millions of pounds."

Visit ourcampaign.org.uk/DrapersField to see the petition.

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