PLANS for a new country park in Leftwich have been given a cautious welcome in Northwich.

Town councillors like the idea of a country park in Dane Valley but want to know more about who will look after it.

Cllr Paul Dolan said: "It's got to be a proper viable country park for the community.

"Without being properly thought out it could be something that comes back to haunt us."

The country park proposal has been put forward by Cheshire West and Chester Council, which has held informal meetings with the town council and neighbouring parish councils to gauge interest.

Cllr Andrew Cooper said: "I wonder about the ongoing maintenance of the park should it be developed.

"At the moment it's not well maintained, if at all.

"We know the number of rangers at Marbury has been cut over the past few years.

"The council wouldn't wish to take on the management of this part of the proposal.

"Delivery and management of the project needs to be addressed."

Town clerk Chris Shaw said the meeting was very informal and arranged to see if the town council would be supportive of the idea.

Cllr Cooper said: "I think it would become a valuable facility for the people of Northwich.

"I propose that we cautiously welcome the proposal and look forward to seeing the plan that includes how it will be maintained in future."

Plans for a country park were first raised by developer Aiscough Strategic Land, which has outline planning permission for around 230 homes and a nature park at Dane Valley.