Huge BeWILDerwood project will increase congestion (From Knutsford Guardian)

Huge BeWILDerwood project will increase congestion

10:30am Thursday 7th June 2012 in Letters

WHILE I am delighted to read that Sarah Ganczarski and family had a fantastic day out at BeWILDerwood Norfolk, in 2010 – though a half-empty car park in July is surprising – I’m sure she will understand that some of us concerned Knutsford residents will have reservations about such a development being planted in a wooded area of Tatton Park. This is a huge project, which is bound to increase traffic congestion on outer roads. There will be months of construction and inevitably some environmental issues, which need to be discussed sensibly and publicly.

With many grandchildren, I am in favour of any outdoor, fun activity, but will this attraction really enhance Knutsford life? Will it bring more trade to our excellent independent shops?

It is marketed as an all-day destination open from March to October. How about making the current very good Tatton Park play area more adventurous, even wild!

How about making a safe pathway around the park from the Knutsford entrance, for wheelchair users, buggies and cyclists – I have seen some scary moments on the road.

According to one town councillor in favour of BeWILDerwood, there will be little or no impact on Knutsford. Oh, really? According to a Tatton Park spokesperson it will bring a substantial number of new visitors to the town and its businesses. See what I mean? Bewildering or what? VAL DAWSON