Plans to build 250 new homes on farmland in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, have sparked opposition from organisers of the town's historic Royal Shrovetide Football match, who warn the development could disrupt a tradition dating back centuries. Steve Jones, secretary of the Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football Committee, has formally objected to the local council, arguing the scheme would cause "significant harm" to the town's cultural and economic assets by encroaching on the game's sprawling, boundary-free playing area.

The 250-home development is earmarked for 35 acres off Green Road, close to the Sturston Mill goal, one of two goals set three miles apart that mark the ends of the pitchless game. Royal Shrovetide Football, played every Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday between the Up'Ards and Down'Ards teams, dates to 1667 with roots in the 12th century, and runs from 2pm to 10pm with virtually no rules beyond avoiding churchyards and cemeteries. More than 670 people have signed a petition against the plans, while developer Hallam Land Management insists the scheme is "sensitively designed" and has factored in local constraints, including retaining a portion of open space.