PLANNING chiefs have given the go-ahead for a new lighting scheme to be installed in Warrington’s oldest public park – Bank Park.
About 40 new lamps on four-metre high traditional lighting columns will be installed – similar in appearance to existing lights in the park.
They will be painted black, following the partially reinstated path forming the open “events space” in the south western corner of the park.
The scheme was opposed by Cllr Kevin Bennett, who described it as a “vanity project.”
But the committee voted to approve the proposals.
Nearby residents, park users, bowling clubs and the wider community had been consulted, as well as local councillors.
The project is part of a wider scheme to improve Bank Park, which includes replacing the bowls pavilion with a new one which includes a café, new all-weather bowling greens and a new terrace area.
Bank Park was the first public park in Warrington and was born out of the grounds of Bank Hall – now the Town Hall.
It opened as a park in 1873, but prior to that had an interesting history. Warrington Cricket Club is believed to have played matches there and, according to legend, an early Lancashire match was also played there.
Planners believe the improved lighting will deter vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
When completed, the park will provide a venue for outdoor events, festivals and other similar activities.
Pictured: One of the existing lighting columns.
