Green Spaces or Playstations?

by Christine McLaughlin
Communal play areas are great for kids’ social development; they learn about teamwork and cooperation, turn taking and conflict resolution. What’s more they allow kids to exercise and use their imagination to come up with new games in a safe environment. So why have Trafford Council allowed United Utilities to hijack one of the few open spaces where children can play in Flixton?
The residents of Snowden Avenue were dismayed when it came to light that our council had leased land on their green space to United Utilities, who plan to build an electricity substation. For the tiny sum of £1000, this giant company has been granted a 60 year lease.
Although residents have discovered legal covenants that clearly restrict any building on the green, and although Trafford Council have admitted that the land was leased ‘in error’, United Utilities have refused to site the substation elsewhere.
So where should the children of Snowden Avenue play? It’s too dangerous to play in the street because of all the cars – a situation which is unlikely to improve given the gradual dismantling of the train service in the area and barely-there bus service.  Given that many children clock up over five hours screen time each day, outdoor play is surely to be encouraged.
The residents of Snowden Avenue are fighting a spirited and extremely well-organised campaign to save the open space, but they urgently need legal advice and funding. If you can help or would like to get involved in the campaign in any way, please contact Julie Chesworth at j.chesworth277@btinternet.com.