RESIDENTS opposed to a new sports club grandstand fear it will attract nuisance.

New Marske Sports Club was granted planning permission yesterday to build a six metre-long 45-seater covered stand next to its Gurney Street football pitch.

But residents, who sent in a letter of objection with 14 signatures, claim the new stand will provide a haven for youths to drink alcohol and have sex.

An open letter to Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, from the residents of nearby Pontac Road said an existing shelter already caused problems.

It said: "They use the small shelter, provided for the managers and trainers, for drinking and sex. They will use this stand for somewhere to sleep and then go thieving in the village."

The residents also claim not enough people watch games to warrant a new stand.

Planning officer Doreen Mealing told the committee: "In defence, the club said they believe they were providing a facility that hopefully will encourage youngsters in a more positive direction.

"It is very difficult to argue it would have an adverse affect."

Council leader David Walsh also backed the scheme. He said: "We are a council that wants to encourage sports provision. The stand will be a big boost to the club.

"Fourteen people do not write to us without a cause so we will ask our community wardens and the police to take note."