CONTROVERSIAL talks have been held between Winsford town councillors over a street festival which is planned in the town next April.

The event is proposed to take place from Thursday, April 8, until Sunday, April 11, and would involved the closure of several roads in Winsford.

The mayor, Clr Pam Booher, believes the festival would be a great way to promote the town centre and bring the community together for an enjoyable celebration.

It would be the first of its size in Cheshire, including a fairground and entertainments in the streets.

But during a town council meeting, other councillors expressed concern that the festival could bring traffic problems and cause havoc in the town.

Clr Don Beckett said: "There will be a lot of people affected by this and we have to make sure that certain members of the public approve of this before it goes ahead.

"We need to consult the people it will affect. Have retailers had their chance to have a say on the matter? I think they should have."

Clr Tony Hooton added: "I have serious doubts about this. I can foresee a great deal of traffic problems and congestion if roads are closed. It blocks off The Drumber and Dene Drive."

But Clr Harry Mooney argued: "I have seen this sort of thing in other towns and I welcome it. I back it to the hilt.

"I'm sure the retailers will back the idea because it will bring people into the town centre. It would also be a tourist attraction if it was made a bi-annual event."

Winsford councillors agreed to consult Cheshire County Council and the police about filtering the traffic safely through the town if the event is to take place.

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