THE proposed Abbey Stadium development has been branded a "huge white elephant" which will "blot the landscape" by a group of town conservationists.

Redditch Friends of the Earth (FOE) group think the plans for the scheme should be scrapped and money otherwise invested in providing environmentally friendly sports facilities for residents.

The group has this week presented a lengthy list of their objections at the ongoing public inquiry into the scheme, which includes building the Bordesley Bypass.

Some of the points they have asked to be considered include the detrimental effect the development will have on the nearby River Arrow and its wildlife.

They also think the development will not combat the problem of antisocial behaviour in the town and that Redditch Council should instead invest its cash into youth centres.

The findings on the public inquiry will be released early next year.

For more details on Redditch FOE, call spokesman Kevin White on 458395.