A COMMUNITY group has been formed to help shape the ‘vision’ of Winsford.

The group, which call themselves the Weaver Valley Co-operative society, formed to discuss development ideas for land currently up for sale by Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The site is located approximately a quarter of a mile to the east of Winsford town centre, and occupies a prominent position along the River Weaver and the A54 roundabout.

A number of possible developments for the land have suggested by the group, which have held two meetings at The Red Lion, Winsford.

Suggestions for potential developments include a ‘Salt resort’ with heated brine baths, a heritage centre, skate park, an outdoor performance area and a riverside walkway/cycle path.

Damon Horrill, managing director of Cornerstone Inns, which owns The Red Lion, said: People are quick to dismiss such notions as pipe dreams, or overly aspirational for Winsford, as if the town doesn’t deserve more.

“We stand by and watch much more significant developments springing up in neighbouring towns and ask, why not Winsford?”

Members of the Weaver Valley Co-operative society, which last met on May 6, are planning on buying shares in the land, and a petition has also been mooted.

Damon revealed the group have also agreed to approach local businesses to request donations of £20 to help fund publicising their campaign.

He added: “Nothing has been built yet and anything ought still to be possible.

“More can and should be done to represent a Winsford vision and to ensure it is represented when it comes to permitting the development of our greatest assets.”

A spokesman for Cheshire West and Chester Council spokesman said that they have yet to receive any planning applications for the site.

The spokesman said: “Although the Council is in discussions with several potential purchasers, no sale has been agreed and the land is still being marketed.

“No planning applications have yet been submitted for the redevelopment of the site.”