NEWENT looks set to get a new, multi-purpose recreation area; but first of all the Forest of Dean District Council wants to hear the views of local residents, businesses and community groups.

If built, the new recreation area will be located on land to the southwest of Meadow Grove in Newent.

The proposals include a hard court games area for children aged 12 years and over, a play area for younger children, changing rooms, a walking and running trail, a grass pitch, a wildflower meadow area with wetland and ponds, and there will be potential for a skate park in the future.

Cllr Patrick Molyneux, leader of the Forest of Dean District Council said: “We are looking for feedback from residents, businesses and community groups on our proposals to create a new recreation area in Newent to enhance facilities for the local community. We urge people to visit our website to view the plans and give us your feedback in writing.”

And Newent's mayor, Cllr Edward Wood, added: “This is a prime opportunity for the Newent community to view the plans for the proposed recreation area and submit their thoughts to the district council.”

The recreation area would be created on council-owned land, gifted by housing developers and would be subject to formal planning permission.

Funding to create the recreation area has been secured through negotiations on the housing developments surrounding the land. Maintenance of the land would be the responsibility of the District Council.

The proposals for the land have been developed following some consultation already carried out with Newent residents.

But further views will be welcomed, as part of the ongoing consultation process.

The planning application is available to view on the Council’s website www.fdean.gov.uk as ‘Land to the southwest of Meadow Grove, Newent’, planning reference number P1099/16/FUL.

The closing date for feedback is Monday, November 28.