A CAMPAIGN group has been launched to save Frodsham’s Ship Street play area from development.
The group, Green Gates Frodsham – the play area is known locally as Green Gates Park – has drawn up proposals for the land which include allotments, a play area, sensory flower garden and car parking.
Group member Melanie Halsall attendied last nights meeting of the Town Council to outline the proposals and won an undertaking from councillors that they would delay a decision to give the group time to draw up more detailed plans.
The council has indicated that it is considering selling the land but has not yet made a decision. Weaver Vale Housing Trust has indicated that if it was successful in buying the site it would consider building a mix of two and three bed properties, including bungalows for the disabled.
Mrs Halsall told the council the Trust’s proposal made no mention of playing facilities and local residents believed there was a need for them – particularly for younger children.
Parents were reluctant to let their children use the nearby Saltworks Farm playing field because of anti-social behaviour problems there.
Green Gates Frodsham proposals are for:
(A) Car park with notice board and charity/foodbank drop-off points.
(B) Secure allotments surrounded by plants to attract bees
(C) An open are with seating
(D) Tree-lined walkway with pergola as a focal point
(E) Relaxing sensory flower garden with picnic tables
(F) Enclosed play area with equipment for disabled children
The group claim the land is protected by a covenant stating the land is to be preserved for generations of Frodsham children and that Ship Street suffers from heavy traffic which would be exacerbated by additional housing.
Earlier proposals for the land to be converted into allotments or retained as a play area were put to the Town Meeting early in July and will be considered by the council.