FAMILIES living around Parsonage Way field are campaigning to prevent the parish council from changing the area.

They argue the parish council is trying ‘to force through their plans’ for an enclosed children’s play area and a second path ‘would dominate the green space and prevent families from playing games on the field’.

A public consultation was held to find out residents’ views on the plans.

These include installing a dwarf wall and railings, centralising the pedestrian access with a new gate, a children’s play area with an access path and improving the drainage of the field to allow it to be used all-year round. Almost 200 residents took part with 74 per cent in favour of the proposals.

Peter Watson, chairman of Great Sankey Parish Council said: “We are delighted with the response from residents, we took over the lease from Warrington Borough Council two years ago with the view to help protect and improve our green spaces.

“We will continue to work with the council to apply for funding to implement the project. We want the field to remain a green space that is valued as an asset to the community and is accessible for all.”

Residents opposing the changes argue that most respondents either never use the field or use it very rarely.

One said: “It’s really disgusting. They have clearly not listened to the concerns or views of people who will be directly affected but are relying on the views of people who never even use the field.”

Campaigners fear the development will ruin the only open green space in the area and will lead to noise, anti-social behaviour and parking issues.