People living near a beauty spot in the heart of Rochester are outraged because King’s School, which owns part of it, has installed spiked metal fencing.

The Alps playing field, on the site within Watts Meadow, is used by the school and Medway Rugby Club and the Combined Cadet Force train there.

But over the years people have been using it as a public right of way and it has been hit by a spate of vandalism caused by motorbike riding, lighting of fires and illegal parties.

In a letter to residents, principal Jeremy Walker said staff also had to pick up discarded broken glass, needles and dog faeces and school buildings, woodland and playing surfaces had been damaged.

This has led to the large area from Priestfields to St Margaret’s Street being fenced off - a decision which has angered those who use it, including dog walkers.

Ward councillor Alex Paterson said: “They may be legally allowed to do it but it is the lack of communication which I question.

“Although they said residents have been consulted, it has come as a surprise to many, including myself.

“This should have been a community decision. Just because King’s employs lots of people, there’s no excuse not to be good neighbours.

“I can see both sides but it’s a bit like taking a sledgehammer to crack a nut.”

Cllr Paterson also felt the heavy metal fencing was not sympathetic to a woodland environment.

Fellow ward councillor Stuart Tranter said: “People are very disappointed. It is the suddenness in which it has happened and that has fuelled speculation there might be plans for development.

“I shall be establishing the facts of the legalities of this and will be mediating with the school.”

Resident Keith Marsh, of Lillymonte Drive, said: “Although there had been rumours, I don’t believe any consultation was held with the local community.

“This further intrusion into the wooded area, which is never used by King’s, shows a complete lack of regard and respect for the local community.”

In response, King’s referred us to a letter sent to some residents in December.

In it, principal Mr Walker said: “The school employs 250 people locally and contributes £6 million a year to the local economy.

“While we understand some residents will be disappointed, we hope you will understand the welfare and safety of our pupils is of paramount concern.”