THE first phase of plans to revitalise Nursery Road Recreation Ground is now almost complete.

Planting of trees and shrubs and the wildlife area will be completed early next month.

Vale Royal Borough Council is supplying all the remaining planting and Marbury Park has donated 10 trees, which have already been planted at the church boundary.

The skate park has been a great success with the teenagers and younger children and much appreciated by their parents.

Angela Robinson, secretary of the Nursery Road Recreation Group, said: "We expected that the novelty factor when the ramps were first installed would generate lots of activity, especially as it was the summer holidays - and it certainly did.

"On some occasions the behaviour got a bit out of hand in the evenings, but any real problems were dealt with quickly and efficiently by PC Mark Williams, who has worked closely with the users and the residents to make sure things are kept under control."

Bollards are to be installed near to the substation and at the footpath entrances to prevent access by unauthorised vehicles and a water fountain should be installed by next summer. Meanwhile fundraising for phase two is now well under way and work is expected to start by summer next year.

The junior and toddler play areas will have a large selection of inclusive play equipment suitable for both disabled and able-bodied children, plenty of seating for parents and carers, access pathways, fencing and lighting.

There will be two five-a-side football pitches and more planting. Angela added: "When the project is complete, Barnton will have a recreation ground to be proud of."

The committee wishes to thank Living Spaces, WREN (Waste Recycling Environmental), Cheshire Community Council's Local Network Fund, Cheshire Police Authority - Community Safety Partnership, Awards for All, Vale Royal Borough Council, Charlton Homes, Shell Better Britain Campaign and Northwich Glass for funding.

vkandel@guardiangrp.co.uk