Labour ward councillors issue statement on transit site plan collapse

As previously reported, Warrington Borough Council’s cabinet approved the purchase of the former Kenyon Lane Nurseries site near Croft.

This was to accommodate a long sought after traveller transit site, but the plans were met with widespread opposition from residents and fellow councillors.

The council has since confirmed that it will not be progressing with plans to buy the site, with a joint statement now issued by Cllr Janet Seddon and Cllr Matt Smith, both residents of the ward they represent.

Cllr Matt Smith and Cllr Janet Seddon (Image: WBC)

They said: “We welcome Warrington Borough Council's confirmation that it is no longer planning to purchase the former Kenyon Lane Nursery as a potential traveller transit site.

“While Warrington desperately needs a well-managed transit site to address the illegal encampments we've seen on Culcheth Village Green, Silver Lane and other areas, we agreed with residents that this particular site was not suitable.

“The local Labour team, including all of our borough and parish councillors, have worked tirelessly to support the residents most affected by this proposal.

“We have been in constant communication with council officers, the council’s chief executive, and members of the cabinet.

READ> Cllr slams ‘selfish bravado’ as Kenyon Lane transit site plan axed

“As elected representatives, we are fully committed to serving our community, and any online claims suggesting otherwise are ill-informed and untrue.

“We have been working at all levels to ensure this proposal was withdrawn.

“Crucially, our experience working with the council has allowed us to effectively engage with decision-makers to secure a satisfactory outcome for the residents we represent.

“We would also like to thank the residents who contacted us – we greatly appreciate your support, and the professionalism with which we were able to collaborate in opposing this proposal.”