Blackpool Rock Gardens future is safe say politicians

The leaflet, which has been distributed as part of Tory candidate Jane Warne's campaign in the Greenlands ward by-election, says the Devonshire Road Rock Gardens could be under threat.

Under the heading 'Protect the Rock Gardens Now', the flyer says Labour's support of development on part of Stanley Park Golf Course means other open spaces need to be protected.

This includes the Rock Gardens which are within Greenlands ward.

But Labour has dismissed the suggestion as "a cynical and deliberate attempt to create anxiety over one of our precious green spaces."

Council leader Coun Lynn Williams added: "We have worked with the friends of the Rock Gardens to invest in fabulous community facilities, with the council contributing £40, 000 to this work which was only completed at the end of last year.

"In addition as with all our local parks we are working with friends of parks and community groups to complete for each park across the town a development plan to increase tree planting, protect wildlife and renovate.

"We are very proud and care deeply about our parks and it is under our care that Stanley Park attained status as a national treasure.

"I am sure the residents of Greenlands will see right through this dishonest nonsense.

" At a time of crisis of living when so many are struggling, people need to know that those concerns are understood and to be represented in an honest way."

But Conservative group leader Coun Tony Williams said Labour had a track record of allowing development on open space in Blackpool.

He said: "The Rock Gardens park is right next to a new proposed housing development being built on school playing fields.

"I think it's understandable people living in the area are rightly concerned this council would have no hesitation in utilising some, or all, of the Rock Gardens park for more houses.

"If this Labour council can blatantly and without remorse or consideration of public feeling, sell off part of the UK's most beautiful park then every park in Blackpool is under serious threat."

He added: "Labour weren't bothered about 'misinformation' or causing anxiety over losing one of our precious green spaces when they sold off part of Stanley Park Golf Course, or decided to use acres of Marton Moss to build new houses.

"I think their past record proves that all our parks and green spaces are at risk."

Labour's candidate in the Greenlands by-election Peter Wright said: "As a dad of two boys, I'm fully aware of how crucial green spaces are for so many reasons.

"Therefore, I was utterly flabbergasted to hear the Blackpool Conservatives had made such a ridiculous accusation in regard to such an important community gem.

"The Rock Gardens are not for sale and will not be developed on. Indeed, Blackpool Council has actively worked to invest in them. Green spaces are vital and I have pledged to protect them."

Voters go to the polls on November 17 in Greenlands wards after a by-election was called following the death of former Conservative councillor John Wing.

Kevin Benfold is also standing for election, representing the Liberal Democrats.