CONCERNS have been raised about the state of a Rudheath park after it was revealed its maintenance contract has run out.

Police and councillors have highlighted problems with the condition of Griffiths Park, in Middlewich Road, and say there are safety issues due to bins not being emptied on a regular basis.

PC Rob Astbury, from Northwich CAT team, raised the subject at the monthly Rudheath Parish Council meeting saying there was a problem with the number of glass bottles littering the fields.

He said: "At the weekends we've got people drinking legally on the park but because the bins are full they're dropping their bottles and cans on the floor.

"Ideally we'd like to see them emptied on a Thursday to prevent littering at the weekend."

Clr Tony Lawrenson explained that NPL Estates is responsible for the land but the historical maintenance agreement between former owners ICI and Vale Royal Borough Council has now lapsed.

But the council expressed fears about the safety of people using the park and said the matter needs addressing quickly.

Clr Jonathan Yoxall said: "What happens if someone injures themselves? Someone has to take responsibility."

Last month dog owner Sandra Sproston, of Station Road, complained about the state of the park after her two-year-old dog Toby cut his paw on broken glass while walking in the park.

A spokeswoman for NPL Estates said the company makes regular inspections of the park and is keen to work with the council to address the matter.

She added: "It is our aim to work jointly with the council to find a solution to the long term maintenance of the site."

Clr Lawrenson is due to meet with NPL Estates this week to try to find a resolution.