Suffolk city leaders want to begin requiring fences around new artifical ponds near homes, schools and playgrounds, according to a recent article in the Virginian Pilot.

Developed objected to the idea which would increase expenses. And, a committee of planning commissioners sided with the developers, however the issue could return next month.

Articial ponds are created to collect and filter storm water run-off in new developments, they are not designed for swimming. One local builder said he has not encountered a rule in other cities. While everyone wants to ensure new developments are designed for safety, requiring added features will raise the end cost for homeowners.

"City staff want to begin requiring fences around new artificial ponds near homes, schools and playgrounds.

Developers object. They call the precaution an unnecessary expense that would damage the aesthetic value of the retention ponds.

A three-person committee of planning commissioners sided with the developers Tuesday, but the issue could return next month before the full commission.

Tuck Bowie, president of The Terry Peterson Cos., said the ponds are amenities in new communities.

'You don't want this big ugly fence around it,' he said.

Planning Director Scott Mills proposed requiring fences around ponds built within 100 feet of a home, school, child care center or playground. The basins aren't for swimming; they're designed to collect and filter storm water run-off in new developments.

The city currently gives the planning director the discretion to require a fence.

Bowie, who is on the board of directors for the Tidewater Builders Association, said he has not encountered such a requirement in the other cities in which he has done business."

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