THE Woodland Trust is fearful of the potential impact development in the town could have on Warrington’s ‘irreplaceable ancient woodland’.

The charity fears Lumb Brook Valley Wood will be ‘bordered’ by two separate blocks of housing, Grappenhall Heys will be ‘surrounded’ by three blocks of housing and Grappenhall Wood may be ‘incorporated’ into a country park, if the local plan is implemented.

Oliver Newham, campaigner for the Woodland Trust, said: “The Woodland Trust is concerned that a number of its sites, including one containing irreplaceable ancient woodland, could be impacted by proposals contained within Warrington Borough Council’s local plan consultation.

“We will be responding to the consultation, urging the council to ensure that both Lumb Brook Valley Wood and Grappenhall Heys are protected from house building proposals – and that Grappenhall Wood is similarly secured.

“Although the council is trying to meet demands for new homes, it is still vital that all future development works in harmony with the existing natural environment.

"We hope our concerns will be taken on board."