YOU’VE chosen the wants of the few over the needs of the many.

That was the reaction the day after councillors voted by the slimmest of margins to back Poole Town Football Club’s controversial plans to build a £1m ground on part of Branksome Rec.

Opponents say the scheme will benefit the club more than it will the 7,000 locals.

On Tuesday night, the casting vote of Cllr John Rampton, chairman of Poole council’s environment overview and scrutiny panel, saw the plans progress to the next stage.

Residents reacted with anger after the decision and yesterday Jacqui Wilson, of the Branksome Rec Action Group, said she was disappointed.

She said: “The voice of the residents has not been taken into account, they’re going for basically 100 people as opposed to 7,000.

“It’s one open green space between 7,000 of us and it’s the only one and they (Poole Town) are taking a good proportion of it for themselves.”

Joy Mabey, of Recreation Road, said she was “disgusted” and added: “My sons would have to pay to play down the rec when my family for 400 years have gone there for free.”

Sue Nippard, who has lived in Wharfdale Road for 23 years, added: “We’ve not got the facilities, we’ve not got the parking.”

Virginia Perkins, of Kent Road, called it “diabolical” and said: “It’s a residential area. We’re all furious.”

Poole Town first announced plans to upgrade the rec’s pitch and pavilion and construct multi-use games areas in March last year.

Poole Town vice chairman Chris Reeves said: “We’re really keen to basically get stuck into the project that’s going to benefit so many people.”

Cllr Rampton said yesterday: “Having listened to all arguments for and against, I am persuaded that the proposal is the best way forward for Branksome and for Poole.

“This scheme represents a wonderful opportunity to enhance Branksome Rec and provide improved facilities for the local community.”

Parkstone Cricket Club is also backing the plans, which will next go before the council’s cabinet on June 2.