A ROW has broken out over plans to use a playing field as a car park when Hampshire begins to host Test match cricket.

Bosses at the Rose Bowl need space nearby for spectators to leave their cars once the venue starts staging five-day international fixtures next year.

But proposals to use Greta Park in Hedge End have already met with opposition from those who fear it will create havoc on the roads on match days.

Hedge End Town Council has agreed to the idea in principle.

But the matter has already divided opinion among members, with some fearing it may end up causing traffic chaos and damaging the playing fields.

Hedge End man Daniel Selwood said: “The whole of the area surrounding the park will come to a standstill for a long period of time.

“It is not appropriate by any means.

“It is just going to churn up the grass and it could take away a facility from the local people.”

Staffing, signage and insurance costs for the parking scheme would be met by the cricket club, which would also be responsible for repairing any damage caused.

Several options are being investigated over compensation for the use of the park, councillors have been told.

That may mean a fee-per-car deal, a flat fee for the hire of the site or the provision of sports grants or cricket coaching for young people in the area.

The Rose Bowl is currently undergoing a massive £48m revamp to boost its crowd capacity and improve its hospitality, media and spectator facilities.

The redevelopment is a key part of the club’s ambition to provide a world class Test Match cricket stadium.

Rose Bowl managing director, Glenn Delve, said: “Nothing has been agreed with regard to Greta Park. It is one of a number of sites we are looking at.

“Each has its own merits and we are working closely with local councils to see what is available.”

The council has yet to set a date for a final decision on the proposal, but a spokesman said any approval would be subject to public consultation.