A SCHOOLBOY is leading the fight for a playground, despite claims that his area is so middle class it does not need one.

Ellis Press, 10, from Barton on Sea, was one of around 100 parents and children who protested on Long Meadow in a debate that has “divided” the community.

He argued for a playground at a meeting of New Milton Town Council – but older residents and dog walkers are fighting the idea.

His mum Tracey, 43, a teaching assistant and a mum of three, said: “He said what memories will I have of growing up in Barton?

“There’s nowhere for children to go.

“The people against it held a meeting and one argument was that Barton on Sea is primarily middle class and people can afford their own play equipment in their own gardens.

“When we protested the antis were saying we must have hired children to turn up.

“The council officer in charge said she has had a lot of evil emails.”

New Forest District Council told the town council it must have a play area in Barton.

Long Meadow was chosen as the best site and three types of play area are currently being considered.

Resident Toby Woolfe, 46, a software salesman, does not want a playground but sympathises with the parents.

He said: “We don’t think it will be used because it’s a very aged population. It’s very middle class. There is a good community spirit but this does seem to have caused quite a big divide.”

Barton on Sea councillor John Hutchins said: “People against it argue that it’s ideal for children already because it has a stream and trees.”

Council leader Goff Beck said the meadow is 10.3 acres and the play area would only use 0.3 acre, so there should be enough room for everyone.

He said there had been opposition to the proposal from “dog walkers who think they own the area,” and also opposition from “the elderly and nimbys”.