Woodland play area to go ahead

PLANNING chiefs at Warrington have given the go-ahead for a new play area in a community woodland – despite objections from nearby residents who feared the wood could be destroyed.
Twenty residents – including former Warrington South MP and borough councillor Mike Hall (pictured) – opposed the proposal on land at Our Wood, off Whittle Avenue, Whittle Hall.
They also objected to plans for another play area on land at Missouri Drive, Chapelford.
But both schemes were approved by the borough council’s planning committee.
The plans were submitted by developers David Wilson Homes.
They involve play equipment, pathways, carved wooden animals and tree planting at Our Wood and play equipment and a new pond at Missouri Drive.
The objectos claimed Our Wood – opened in 2006 – would be destroyed, that the pond would be a danger to children and that the site would become a place where gangs of youths loitered.
However, six letters of support for the proposals were received.
Our Wood was opened seven years ago following a campaign by Great Sankey Parish Council, the Great Sankey North Residents’ Association and a local “Kids Committee”.
The initiative impressed the then Mayor of Warrington, Cllr Linda Dirir, so much that she planted a tree there herself.
Planning officers recommended the proposals be approved.
They said the land at Missouri Drive was always intended for a play area while the introduction of play equipment at Our Wood, while a new concept, would not have any detrimental impact on the existing landscape. However, a number of trees would have to be removed.
They pointed out the plans had been amended to introduce a knee high fence around the pond to meet safety concerns, although the ultimate responsibility with regard to safety would lie with parents.
Cllr Sheila Woodyatt was the only member of the committee to oppose the plans.
She said: “I think they will be environmentally damaging.”