POLICE and councillors are taking action after a row between residents of two exclusive roads in Great Sankey escalated into allegations of violence.

Clashes between residents of Barbondale Close and Widdale Close have broken out over a patch of 'no man's land' which has not yet been brought to a standard where it can be adopted by the borough council.

Barbondale Close residents have objected to children from Widdale Close playing football on the land, which borders both streets, and claim they have caused damage to their property.

But Widdale Close residents claim that people from Barbondale have been abusive toward their children, and an allegation has been made about one householder wielding a knife against the youngsters.

Clr John Morris said: "There is a fine balance to be struck between providing for the needs of young people and respecting people's property and their right not to be disturbed. An allegation has been made and residents have been reminded that they are responsible for their own actions."

Clr Morris and Clr Les Street are trying to bring about improvements to the land so that it can be placed under borough council control.

They are also encouraging children to play on more suitable 'kickabout' land earmarked as the future site of the Thorntondale Community Centre, which is due for completion next year.

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