PORTISHEAD Lake Grounds could become a designated town green to protect it from change.

David Oyns, who lives in Lake Road, has submitted an application to North Somerset Council on behalf of nearby residents, for the open space adjacent to the seafront to be registered as a town green.

Residents say their aim is to protect the character and appearance of the beauty spot which is home to a number of sporting and recreational activities.

Anyone can apply for an area to become a town green if they can prove that it has been used by local people for lawful sports or pastimes for at least 20 years.

The process of making an area a town green, which protects the site from development, can take up to two years to complete.

Portishead Lake Grounds is already protected to a certain degree as it is included in the Local Plan as a site for amenities and open space.