CAMPAIGNERS for and against plans for a football training academy will have the final chance to argue their case next week.

A Government planning inspector arrives on Tyneside on Tuesday for the start of a public inquiry into Sunderland AFC's Academy of Light development on greenbelt land at Whitburn Moor.

The club was given outline planning permission for the development after a public inquiry in 1999.

Bosses then submitted extra plans for a 52-bed dormitory and an indoor training barn, but South Tyneside Council turned them down.

Tim O'Leary, head of the Green Belt Action Group, will lead the protests against the new plans.

"Local residents have already seen the character of the area changed beyond recognition," he said.

"The point must come when the club is told enough is enough."

He also hit out at Sunderland AFC for dropping plans for a wetlands area for school pupils on the site.

Mr O'Leary said: "It is a shame that they removed it, but nothing surprises us any more.

"It makes you wonder if it was only being used as a sweetener to gain approval for the other elements of the academy."

A club spokeswoman said: "We believe the Academy of Light is vital to the future development of the club.

"Failure to secure the indoor facility will mean loss of academy status.

"This means SAFC youngsters will be unable to play against other academy teams - we will be unable to compete against the best teams in the country.

"In the long term, this will affect the development and future potential of our young players. It will also adversely affect our ability to attract the best youngsters to our club."

She denied that the wetlands area had ever been "a sweetener".

"The nature study classroom was not an integral part of the academy facilities nor required for the operation of the academy," she said.

"It was added as a positive benefit for the local community, allowing schools and other local organisations to utilise the wetlands area.

"The council has expressed an objection to the facility at this current time and we have therefore reluctantly withdrawn the application.

"We are hopeful that, in partnership with the council, we may be able to resurrect the plans in the future."

The inquiry starts at 2pm, in Chuter Ede Education Centre, Galsworthy Road, South Shields.