Toxic waste concerns

CONCERNS over toxic waste and how matter will be excavated from a former airfield site in Appleton, if it is developed into an underground garage, came under scrutiny by parish councillors.

Plans to turn the former Stretton Airfield Base into an underground garage, with space for 118 cars, are currently on hold.

Cllr Peter Walker (LD - Appleton) is set to attend a council meeting which will be held on January 29, to discuss whether the move should go ahead.

 

Accomodation for squirrels

CHILDREN are being invited to help build accommodation for red squirrels in need at Walton Hall Gardens' children's zoo.

The youngsters will get the opportunity to help the rangers make new nest boxes to ensure the animals stay snug and dry.

It will take place on February 19 from 11am-12pm and youngsters attending must be older than 5.

Appleton development opposition

Appleton Parish Council has again strongly opposed plans to turn the rugby club, on Bridge Lane, into more than 50 houses.

The site, owned by the council, but leased to Warrington RUFC, costs the team just £15 a year but remains unused.

Borough councillor Brian Axcell (LD - Appleton), who sits on the parish council, is adamant that there are limited factors of the move which would be beneficial to the community.

"We don't see any reason that should allow the club to make money,” he said.

He added: "We have been trying for years to get them to relinquish the lease but we can't - legal advice tells us that we cannot do it."

Getting gritty

THE issue of grit bins being filled up across Appleton was raised at Tuesday's parish council meeting.

Cllr John Price (Hill Cliffe without ward) believes the issue needs addressing in light of the chilly temperatures in recent weeks.

He asked the council: "Do grit bins get filled more across the frosty periods?"

After some uncertainty with fellow councillors, he added: "I turned a few of the bins over and some of them were running low."

Burglary warning

POLICE are warning residents across Appleton, Stretton, Hatton and Appleton Thorn on the dangers of making it to easy for burglars to break in to properties.

PCSO Lynda Garner, who covers the Appleton area, believes measures can be taken to prevent the opportunity for criminals.

"When you are leaving the house, if you have got time switches then use them and close the curtains on your house," she said.