A council has scrapped controversial plans to install a fence around a popular green space following public opposition.

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council submitted a planning application for a two metre fence and four metre high netting around The Wammy, off Lower Milehouse Lane, in order to stop bikers from damaging the football pitches.

The application received more than 40 objections from residents, who said the fence would make the site less accessible, while an online petition against the proposals has been signed by 158 people. Council chiefs have now withdrawn the plans, saying they will look at other ways of protecting The Wammy.

The Wammy recently received a £1.6 million pavilion with changing rooms and community facilities, operated by Newcastle Town FC. But the site has been plagued with anti-social behaviour, including people riding quad bikes and dirt bikes across the pitches and dog fouling.

Under the now-withdrawn plans, the fence and netting would have surrounded most of The Wammy, with several unlocked pedestrian access gates around the perimeter. The application received 46 objections from members of the public, as well as 34 letters of support.

While supporters felt that the fence would make the pitches more usable by local teams, objectors felt it would reduce public access to the green space.

Objector Amy Mullock said: "This open green space plays an important role in bringing the community together. It encourages social interaction, supports community spirit, and provides a place where residents of all ages and backgrounds can integrate and connect

"The proposed netting would significantly detract from the character of the area. Not only would fencing of this height be visually intrusive and unsightly, but it would also create a feeling of enclosure."

But supporter Kerri-Ann Hargreaves argued that the fence would help protect the green space for local youngsters to enjoy.

In her representation, she said: "We support the fence. This facility allows 120+ footballers aged six to 15 play football in our local community in a safe environment each Sunday.

Currently it doesn't feel safe due to irresponsible bikers and dog owners who allow their dogs to foul. Surely the local community see that the fence will stop this."

The petition, launched by Kevin Healey, said the fence would 'restrict access to a significant part of The Wammy, transforming our open haven into a restricted zone'.

Mr Healey said he acknowledged the ongoing problems at The Wammy, but suggests they could be addressed though measures such as 'community-led supervision' or improved lighting.

The borough council announced on Thursday that it had dropped the plans for the fence and netting.

A spokesperson said: "We've been working with local residents, sports clubs and other partners to deal with ongoing issues on the green space, including dog fouling, unauthorised quad bikes and anti-social behaviour. These problems are damaging the football pitches and interrupting matches.

"We did look at putting fencing around the pitches, with pedestrian access points, but after listening to feedback from the community, we've decided not to go ahead with this idea. The planning application has now been withdrawn.

"We're still committed to keeping the pitches safe and in good condition for players, clubs and the wider community – while making sure the Wammy stays open, welcoming and easy for everyone to enjoy."

The Wammy is one of 80 sites in the borough that the council has proposed for Fields in Trust status, which would protect them from future development.

Council leader Simon Tagg said: "The council will work with the community and local councillors to address anti-social behaviour and the use of mini-bikes, which have caused damage to pitches used by local football teams and children just wanting a kick-about.

"Stopping the public using The Wammy was never suggested. Protecting green spaces, keeping them open, and working together to look after them – that's the right approach."