Concern over play area site

FAMILIES have raised concerns about plans to install a children's play area near their homes.

Thousands of people have already signed petitions calling for improvements to Richmond Street Park, in Penkhull.

But some residents in nearby Gerrard Street – who back the park improvements in general – do not want the play area near their homes.

Julia Leavens, of Gerrard Street, said: "There is a huge area at the bottom of the park, not close to any houses, which could be used.

"I have no objections to the playground, but its positioning will make it unbearable.

"I have lived here for 32 years and it is a lovely quiet street."

Neighbour Rita Dono said: "There are not enough parking spaces for residents in our street and this would make parking outside our own properties virtually impossible."

A decision on the planning application to Stoke-on-Trent City Council should be made within weeks.