A MAKEOVER for the Browns Lane playing fields has moved closer after Cheshire East Council submitted a planning application.

The local authority and its arms-length company Ansa announced their intention to overhaul the historic fields last August.

Now, a planning application has been submitted for improved facilities at the playing fields – including a shared-use path with lighting, a new play area, a new drainage system, a multi-use games area and a football pitch.

The move follows recent housebuilding in the area, and Cllr Toni Fox, CEC member for Dean Row, is pleased to see that money contributed by developers looks set to be used on the site.

“I am delighted that we are finally drawing nearer to residents getting some benefit from the Section 106 monies accrued from local developments in the area,” the Residents of Wilmslow member said.

“Unfortunately the well-known drainage issues on the site have caused some delays in the planning application being submitted, however I am confident that the proposals put forward have been thoroughly considered.”

The playing fields are believed to have previously been part of the Browns Lane Farm, and the pond – which is set for improvement as part of the drainage scheme – has been a feature there for more than 100 years.

By 1910 the site was divided into two fields while residential development took place nearby, and the Royal Air Force had a site to the west of the fields from the 1940s until 1975.

In its masterplan unveiled last year, CEC said it wants to ‘develop an exciting, diverse and attractive public space for a growing community’ – as well as enhancing the site’s biodiversity.

Cllr Fox added: “Ansa has advised me that once planning permission has been granted they will start by removing the existing play area and commencing the drainage works as soon as ground conditions allow.

“They anticipate being on site for approximately four to six months during which it will be closed off to the public – signage will be installed to warn local residents prior to closing the site.

“Given that the site is liable to flooding and heavy soil conditions under which heavy machinery will not be able to operate the timescales are weather dependent. Let’s hope for a dry summer.”

Residents can submit comments on the application until Thursday, February 7, and a decision is expected to be made by Friday, March 22.

To have your say, search for ’18/6189M’ on CEC’s planning website.