Have your say at the library on plans for Dane Meadow (From Knutsford Guardian)

Have your say at the library on plans for Dane Meadow

2:10pm Monday 1st October 2012 in News By David Morgan

RESIDENTS have the chance on Monday to have their say on ambitious plans to link Holmes Chapel and Cranage.

A public meeting is being held at Holmes Chapel Library at 7pm to discuss ideas for Dane Meadow, a seven-hectare country park.

Grants are being sought for £750,000 of improvements, including upgraded paths and steps, a nature reserve and space for events on the south side of the river.

There are plans for recreational and sporting facilities to the north side and a footpath and cycle path from Cranage to Holmes Chapel on a new bridge as a safe route to school.

Clr David Savage, of Holmes Chapel Parish Council, said: “It comes as a surprise to many people that Holmes Chapel does not have a park or any other easily-accessible open green space for the community to enjoy.

“As a consequence, plans are under way to make the best use of the land along the Dane Valley, which is owned by Cheshire East Council. The main aim is to attract more of the community to use the area by making it more accessible, but not to change its natural character.”

The parish council is putting money towards the project, and is applying for grants from Natural England and Waste Recycling Environmental.

The priority is to improve footpaths and steps for disabled people and those who struggle to walk.

Clr Savage, of Jodrell Close, said: “A public meeting was held earlier in the year, and a number of people have expressed interest in getting involved in conserving the natural environment and wildlife in the area.

“Others are interested in art projects which blend in with the natural environment, and others would like to see small events taking place in the meadow.”

Campaigners would like to meet anyone with an area of expertise that could help push the project forward. Resident Marc Granville is leading a group focused on environmental activities, and Sharon Forsythe is in charge of art projects. For more information or to indicate your attendance e-mail danemeadow@hotmail.co.uk.