COUNCILLORS are warning walled garden campaigners they may have to compromise with developers or face the historic landmark disappearing altogether.

Site owners Jenning Holdings have submitted plans to build a two-storey apartment block and private garden at the 16th century Welsh Row plot.

They say: "This proposal will cause no harm to the historic features of the wall and will ensure its restoration and continued maintenance."

But Nantwich Walled Garden Society, formed last year to protect the site, which has fought off two previous development applications, are angry at the new plans.

At a meeting last week they agreed to oppose the application.

Society secretary Pat Fulford said: "This building design would be more suitable for the Florida Quays not inside a listed building on a historic landmark - we are amazed this is even being considered."

They are also concerned at plans to knock down part of the Grade II listed wall to make way for a vehicular entrance.

But Cllr Arthur Moran believes the development could be the only way to save the landmark.

He said: "The wall and garden are in a sad state at the moment and we don't know whether sufficient funds can be raised to save them.

"If something is not done quickly the wall may not be there at all in future and the development will mean the site is kept open and maintained - sometimes we have to compromise."

Campaigners now face a race against time to voice their objections to the borough council before the deadline of September 30 and people can write to the planning department at the Municipal Buildings in Crewe to make their views known.