WHITCHURCH Town Council will examine a suitable location for a new disability-friendly playground in the town.

In the current Whitchurch Place Plan a plot of land in Wheatsheaf Drive has been set aside for upgrading a playground with inclusive play equipment.

The initial plans were brought to council by the father of a child with disabilities but as the project is now being funded by the neighbourhood precept, a discussion has taken place on a more suitable location.

At the council's full council meeting, held virtually on Thursday, September 17, Councillor John Sinnott put forward the suggestion to explore a new location for the park.

"This was brought to council originally by the father of a disabled child," said Cllr Sinnott. "I'm all in favour but as we're paying for it should we be considering if Wheatsheaf Drive is the best place for equipment so it's available for a wider range of children."

Cllr Andy Hall agreed with Cllr Sinnott's point, suggesting Wheatsheaf Drive had only been chosen as a matter of convenience.

"The gentleman in question was going to try and get a scheme with Sir John Talbot's," said Cllr Hall. "I think they chose that location as all the equipment had gone and was unused, not that it's a particularly good area.

"I'm all for it, but as for the location maybe Cllr Sinnott has a point."

Cllr Simon Hamlyn also agreed and suggested the council should consult the public on where the inclusive equipment should be located.

"Cllr Sinnott makes some points that we shouldn't ignore," said Cllr Hamlyn.

"I propose in principle we agree funding but have a wider consultation for best location in town."

Councillors voted in favour of Cllr Hamlyn's proposal.