Playground for pond: ‘ridiculous’ (From Warrington Guardian)

Playground for pond: ‘ridiculous’

11:45am Thursday 15th March 2012 in News

A FATHER-OF-THREE has described plans to swap a children’s playground for a pond in Great Sankey as a ‘ridiculous decision’.

Housebuilder David Wilson Homes had originally proposed a play area for youngsters would be installed on Missouri Drive, Chapelford.

But homeowners received letters earlier this month stating the area, which would currently serve more than 50 young children, has been moved to Our Wood and instead they would be building a pond.

Niall Kelly, who has children aged seven, six and four, said: “I am disgusted by this decision as there is already planning permission for the park on Missouri Drive and there are so many young children in this area.

“A pond is not a source of enjoyment for very young children and is a very dangerous thing to have where there are so many young children.

“A natural pond is very close to where the new pond will be placed, why not spruce this up instead.”

Concerns about anti-social behaviour in Our Wood and the pond becoming a dumping ground were also raised.

Andrew Taylor, planning director for DWH, said proposals will be ‘put forward and shared with the community’ following a public exhibition last week.

He said: “We received a great response and are awaiting any further feedback forms by Friday.