Furious Frodsham residents say they’re ‘appalled’ that a piece of the town’s history is up for sale.

For decades, the land on Fountain Lane has provided a popular recreational play area for children featuring swings, slides and regular bonfire displays.

But now Frodsham Town Council has angered residents by making plans to sell the land and build terraced houses on it.

Mark Nield, who has lived in Frodsham for 53 years and grew up yards away from the playground, said he is furious at the proposals.

“My childhood was spent playing and growing up on that land and I have many happy memories playing there as a child,” he said.

“Once the land is sold off it won’t be long before there is concrete and bricks all over it in the form of houses – and then it’s gone forever.

“I have to say I’m utterly appalled at the council’s decision – if memory serves me right I’m sure the council agreed, be it verbally, that the Fountain Lane play area was to be left to the people of Frodsham for recreational purposes.

“Surely they can come up with a better idea as to what Fountain Lane play area can be used for – it could be made into a nice area where people, especially the elderly, can sit and take things easy.

“It would only require tidying up a few benches and flowers, and the land would still be used as was intended – for recreational purposes.”

However, Jon Wild, clerk of Frodsham Town Council, said: “We have been made aware of the views of some residents about this.

“One or two comments have been received, expressing disappointment that the area will be sold and while the council does not wish to disappoint anyone, it has decided to proceed with the sale.

"This is for the following reasons: The area has no viable future as a play area – it is just a few steps from a much bigger and better play area in Castle Park, which has seen much investment in recent years.

"It has been closed for some months now, with little or no response to the letter announcing closure to local residents.

"It continues to cost taxpayers’ money to maintain, and to pose a potential health and safety worry."

Referring to the agreement made decades ago, Mr Wild explained: "We understand there was an intention expressed when the land was sold in the 1930s that it be used for play.

"However, our view, supported by legal advice, is that this is not a covenant, and so does not bind us forever.

"The needs of Frodsham are now very different, and the facilities available are much better than in the 1930’s.

"The council intends to use the money it raises to invest in play and leisure in the town.

"Its approach to Frodsham’s play areas is set out in its Play Strategy."