A sports centre and outdoor games area could be built on an eyesore plot in Dewsbury.

The overgrown land, between Craven Road and Mavis Street in Scout Hill, is a haven for drug-taking, alcohol abuse and fly-tipping.

There have been several planning applications for business use or housing but all have been refused.

Now landowner Mr Camran Ishaq, of Stoney Bank Street, Scout Hill, is seeking permission to build a small sports centre and Multiple Use Games Area (MUGA).

Planning documents submitted to Kirklees Council say the land is “overgrown and desperately in need of some form of regeneration.”

After dark the site is said to be a magnet for drug-dealing and drug-taking and youths meet up to drink alcohol.

The site is also used as a dumping ground for rubbish and Mr Ishaq and his family have spent a “substantial amount of money” clearing it.

The sports centre and courts would be protected by a 2.5 metre high security fence.

A design and access statement, compiled by architect Stuart Hartley, said sports facilities would be a boost to the local community.

He added: “The complex will not only target the young but people of all ages promoting healthy living.

“There will also be scope to have a sports cafe serving healthy light snacks and refreshments catering to the sports enthusiasts with live sporting events being shown such football fixtures and boxing matches.”

Mr Hartley said Scout Hill had been lacking youth facilities for 20 years despite promises from political parties.

Games area plan for land at Mavis Street, Scout Hill in Dewsbury.
Games area plan for land at Mavis Street, Scout Hill in Dewsbury.