The decision to allow a Glasgow football pitch to be fenced off was ruled unlawful in court.

This is the result of a judicial review raised regarding a barrier around a football pitch in Cathkin Park.

As the Glasgow Times reported exclusively, Southside residents joined together in opposition to the proposal in June 2023.

They argued that the 3m high twin wire and up-to-5m high ball-stopping net would stop locals from accessing the space and cause harm to wildlife.

Despite their vehement disapproval, the planning application was approved by council officials in December last year.

Applicant Jimmy Johnstone Football Academy submitted the bid a year after they received a 20-year lease of the area, for an annual fee of £750.

They argued the addition would help them take care of the pitch.

A spokesperson said at the time: "To protect the grass football pitch from vandalism by ways of stolen cars, quad bikes, broken bottles and dog fouls, along with unauthorised golfing on the pitch.

"The grass football pitch is also being used for BBQ on summer days we can only do this if the grass football pitch is protected with the fence."

Residents opposing the developmentResidents opposing the development (Image: Colin Mearns, Newsquest)

(Image: Colin Mearns, Newsquest)

(Image: Colin Mearns, Newsquest)

(Image: Colin Mearns, Newsquest)

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In the judicial review, petitioner Gregory Brown challenged the planning officers' decision to validate the application.

He argued that it was "predicated on a material error of fact regarding the impact of the development on public access to the pitch".

The court documents state that despite a report to the committee stating that “public access is not being removed altogether", this is not the case.

He also argued the decision "failed to have regard to the relevant development plan and separately failed to comply with the council’s statutory duty under section 13(1) of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003".

In his decision, Lord Sandison said that "the decision complained of was predicated on a material error of law".

It was reduced accordingly.

Glasgow City Council and the Jimmy Johnstone Charitable Trust have been approached for comment.