CLAIMS that a plan to improve the Ledbury Recreation Ground has been "scuppered" because of complaints from residents has been strongly denied by the chairman of town's environment and leisure committee, Cllr Martin Eager.

But Cllr Eager revealed there had been some concerns raised by residents over plans for a picnic area, and this matter was being looked into.

This follows concerns that the Recreation Ground is already a focus for anti-social behaviour, including late night drinking.

But Cllr Eager said: "The town plan states that the public wants to see improvements to the Recreation Ground, and improve it we will."

This includes improvements to the skate park.

But Cllr Eager said members of the public had raised concerns about plans for a picnic area, "and so we are having a rethink".

A town council "task and finish" group had recently been preparing an application for a Tesco's grant; and if successful the money could be used for picnic tables, a new shelter and lighting on the Recreation Ground.

Cllr Bradford, who claimed the plan had now been "scuppered" said: "There are complaints by residents saying there is anti-social behaviour on the Recreation Ground, with adults drinking and partying down by the basketball area until 2am or 3am in the morning.

"This is a police matter, and you cannot stop social development of the site because of anti-social behaviour. Otherwise, why don't we build a Berlin Wall around it, and lock it up at 10pm at night?"

Cllr Bradford said he was also concerned that a recent meeting with concerned residents was informal, and not an official town council meeting.

He added: "Where are the minutes?"