Have your say on The Rec

Standish Voice (SV) has outlined a bid to convert the area known as The Rec into a split car park and children’s play park following a consultation.

But the group now wants feedback on what the play park aspect of the plans should include and is asking for responses from as many people as possible.

However, concerns remain about both the forum’s development scheme and the way in which the initial consultation was conducted.

Two separate community groups have since emerged to oppose the plans. Both Don’t Wreck Our Rec and The Friends of Standish Rec want to keep the land as it is.

An SV statement reads: “This is your opportunity to have your say on how the Rec can be improved and enable it to become a popular park in the centre of Standish with facilities which can be utilised by the whole community, including nearby residents, families with children, youth organisations, shoppers and visitors to Standish centre, as well being a place with more plants and wildlife.

“We particularly want young people to have a say in what kind of park and play facilities should be provided on The Rec, so if you represent young people, it is important to ask their opinions too.”

SV has previously argued the Rec was rarely used in its current form.

The settled plan will form part of the over-arching Standish Neighbourhood Plan, which would shape development in the village in the coming years.

It would also be subject to a further consultation and a village-wide referendum.

Opposing groups have argued that the Southlands Avenue site should not be developed because it provides a rare and vital area of green space for youngsters to use and enjoy.

They have also disputed the need for a car park on the site and criticised the initial Standish Voice consultation.

Residents have until the end of May to email suggestions to [email protected]

Written responses, with name, address and postcode can be dropped off at the Standish Voice postbox in Standish Library.