PLANS to stabilise a slipping water bank at a country park were expected to be rubberstamped last night.

Vale Royal Borough Council's planning committee was expected to approve the scheme to stabilise the bank at Wades Clough Countryside Park, to the rear of Tarn Close in Winsford.

Wades Clough is a narrow strip of woodland along both banks of a small stream and work will be done to stabilise the bank and rebuild a footpath, including a handrail.

A report to planners said: 'The proposal is to rectify the land slippage along the public footpath at the rear of Tarn Close, where materials are moving down the slope towards the stream.

'Previous attempts have been made to reinstate the footpath and its associated timbers.

'However, these measures have only been a temporary solution and further ground movement has taken place.'

Borough council workers plan to stabilise the bank by fitting two walls, tied back with ground anchors.

The existing footpath will then be reconstructed.

The footpath will also be straightened and the damaged fence and posts replaced with timber posts and a galvanised handrail.

The plans have already been welcomed by Winsford Town Council and the borough council was expected to push them through without a hitch.

The report added: 'In view of the demonstrated need for the proposed works as submitted by the applicant and the enhancement of the area to be enjoyed by the public, the application is considered to be of benefit to the community.'