Council halts sale of 'tiny' park after outcry

Plans to auction off a "tiny" park has been put on hold by a council following pressure from residents and councillors.

A 'For Sale' sign had gone up on a small patch of grass on Water Street in Great Harwood.

The small parcel of land, surrounded by terraced houses, was put on the market with a starting price of £50,000 by Hyndburn Council.

Residents overlooking the park had said they feared developing the land would undermine the value of their homes, one saying losing the park would "change the character" of the area.

Resident John Noble told the Local Democracy Reporting Service many in the neighbourhood were unaware of the park's sale until the sign went up.

He said: "This is not an insignificant piece of unused land.

"It is an established green space that has been part of the neighbourhood for generations.

"It provides an important open outlook for surrounding homes, a welcome break from residential development and a valued feature of the local environment.

"For many residents, it is something they have grown up with and enjoyed throughout their lives.

"The loss of this space would permanently change the character of the immediate neighbourhood.

He added: "It would remove something that cannot simply be replaced elsewhere, and would affect not only the immediate residents but the wider community of Great Harwood."

Councillor Judith Addison raised the issue at a recent meeting of Hyndburn's cabinet.

Now council is putting the sale on hold.

Hyndburn Council leader councillor Munsif Dad said: "Following concerns raised by local residents, a petition received by the council, concerns raised by Great Harwood ward councillors, and issues highlighted by councillor Judith Addison at last week's cabinet meeting, we have taken the decision to pause the proposed disposal of the land on Water Street, Great Harwood."

Residents will now be invited to share their views on the future of the land.

Dad said no further decisions will be taken until a review has been completed.

He said: "Having listened carefully to the views of the community and considered the strength of local feeling, I believe it is right that we pause at this stage and take the time to carry out a thorough review.

"We recognise local people care about this space and want to have a say in its future.

"As part of the review, I have asked ward councillors to work closely with residents and community groups to bring forward ideas for the site and its longer-term use."

He added: "With the site now withdrawn from auction, we have an opportunity to take stock, listen to residents' views and carefully consider the options for its future."

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