Town park in pipeline

A £400,000 neighbourhood park could be created in the heart of Kidderminster, linking Weavers Wharf shopping complex with a proposed new housing development.

The scheme could also be used to showcase works of art such as sculptures as part of a transformation of the open space near to Park Lane in the town.

Landscape consultants Taylor Young were commissioned by Wyre Forest District Council to look at the potential use of the area.

In a report they claimed the site, which was earmarked for an extension of the town's ring road but which has remained idle because the scheme was shelved in the late 1990s, provides a natural setting to the town centre and the Weavers Wharf shopping centre.

The council's principal forward planning officer Ken Harrison has now drawn up a report to be discussed by members of the council's prosperity policy panel on January 10.

The report claims the natural setting of the land offers a "unique opportunity to create green space in the heart of the town".

But Mr Harrison warns in his report that severe gradients could pose technical difficulties for opening up the site for open space and public use.

Retaining walls are said to be in a poor state of repair and there has also been extensive fly-tipping at the top of the bank.

Because of health and safety fears, the council decided to close off and make the site secure early last year.

Now councillors are set to discuss a phased project which would see the gradual development of a neighbourhood park which could range from simple security improvements costing £35,000 to proposals for a new town park costing up to an estimated £400,000.

But before any decisions can be taken, surveys on topography, trees and wildlife habitats are needed, officials claim. Residents would also need to be asked for their views.

By Sue Smith