THE next stage in the Orford Park Project is under way after a series of workshops with residents established more secure plans for the development.

Three drop-in sessions held in April gave community groups the chance to see the latest site plans and building layouts and receive a full update on the project’s progress.

Residents had the chance to discuss the project with the design teams and project manager and give their opinions on how the community can be involved in the future management and development of the programme.

Duncan Richardson, Orford Park project manager, said: “We gained a lot of useful information from the participants which will be used to guide the final design and layout of the buildings and park. It will also be used to support the planning submission which we will be submitting in June.

“This exciting project aims to use sport, leisure, health, education and lifelong learning to increase the health, well-being and empowerment of the community.”

The community sports hub building will contain a library with IT suites, meeting rooms, a cafe, swimming pools, health and fitness facilities, sports hall and creche.

The new project promises to regenerate Orford Park and the surrounding area and provide community and sports facilities for residents.

NHS Warrington plans to provide three GP practices within the project along with a pharmacy and a lifestyle team which will help patients lose weight, quit smoking and drink less.

Outside there will be walking and cycling paths around new grass pitches which will link to the existing park.

The current play area will be upgraded and extended to appeal all age groups.

There will also be skateboarding and BMX parks.

A new bowling green will be floodlit and a pavilion will be built, with well-lit pedestrian access all around the site. The area will also be covered by CCTV.

Main vehicle access to the site will be from Winwick Road with a bus stop outside the building.

A planning application is expected to be submitted in early June, with design set to be complete in September, road construction beginning in November, hub work starting in April and the project due to open in November 2011.