Families neighbouring a nine-pitch football development in London Colney say they may be forced to move if something is not done about the noise.

Since the new leisure centre in Cotlandswick opened in June, residents say there are footballers playing until 10.30pm every night.

Joan Riley, who lives opposite the complex, which replaced London Colney’s Adventure World, said the noise was “horrendous”.

She said: “It is constantly bang, bang, bang until late at night. It’s horrific. I can no longer sit in the garden.”

Ms Riley said she now had to keep her windows permanently closed, adding: “Someone needs to do something.”

Rose Vicars, who also lives opposite the centre and works the night shift at Sainsbury’s, said she struggled to sleep during the day.

She said: “The constant thudding of the ball and shouting is really awful. I am in a desperate situation, losing sleep every day.

"The problems would be as severe if I worked day shifts. The footballers are rude, shouting and swearing and the noise the ball makes is horrendous.”

Ms Vicars said she could hear the thudding even when she had the TV on in her room, and the problem is so bad she has considered moving.

She added: “I don’t understand what possessed people to built the centre. The playing times need to be restricted. It used to be so quiet here, we all really have been so unlucky.”

Labour councillor for the area Dreda Gordon said she had received at least ten complaints.

She said: “This won’t do. We are in the process of organising a meeting to make sure something is done about the noise.”

The new £4.8 million complex in High Street has a 60-station gym, an exercise studio, a single court sports hall, and outdoor and indoor children’s play areas.

Richard Shwe, head of community services at St Albans District Council, said the council was aware of complaints, adding: “We are sorry that some residents are unhappy, and ask people to bear with us while we work to find a solution.”