'DRASTIC' work is being carried out at Sankey Valley Park to allow the 'woodlands to develop to their full potential'.

Residents have raised concerns over the work taking place, with the operation being labelled as a 'destruction' of the area.

Fears over the wildlife at the site have also been expressed to the council.

But the council insists the work at the park 'will ultimately create greater connectivity between wildlife habitats'.

A spokesman added: "Initial works may appear drastic but impact upon a relatively small section of the site and are necessary for the woodlands to develop to their full potential.

"Much of the woodland areas within the Sankey corridor will remain untouched providing substantial areas of refuge for wildlife.

"The project is being phased over a three-year period to lessen the impact on biodiversity and aims to open up the plantings and make the parkland more welcoming to visitors."