Angry residents this week threatened to "oust" Labour councillors if plans for a 9,000-seater stadium are given the green light.

They claim Barnet FC's ambitious new plans will have a "catastrophic impact" on the area surrounding Underhill.

Householders in Barnet Lane, Westcombe Drive and Western Way this week submitted a 450-name petition objecting to the scheme.

Petition co-organiser Peter Sawyer, of Western Way, said: "So far we have had 100 per cent support. People are phoning us daily to add their name to the growing list of supporters."

Barnet FC announced plans to build a £12million stadium to the south of its present Underhill site last month.

A decision by Barnet Council on the proposal is expected early next year.

Mr Sawyer said residents objected to the loss of Barnet Cricket Club and a children's play area as well as the erosion of the Green Belt.

A new stadium would increase congestion, parking problems and could be used for big events like pop concerts, Mr Sawyer said.

"If our own Arkley ward Labour councillors fail to support us, then they can expect, with their marginally held seats, to be thrown out at the council elections in May 2002," Mr Sawyer added.

Barnet FC PR consultant Dennis Signy said: "We can understand the feelings of people living in close proximity but ten years ago the club had an 11,000 capacity.

"That doesn't mean 11,000 people attended, nor does 9,000 mean 9,000 people will attend, the average gate is thousands below that."

Arkley ward councillor Pauline Coakley Webb denied her seat was at risk over the project. "Everyone's concerns will be taken on board when it comes to the planning committee," she said.

"I do not think one issue sums up all the work the council does. We always try to do the best for our residents."

November 19, 2001 13:35

KEVIN BURCHALL