Row over cost of bridge plan

The cost of lighting up Bewdley's historic bridge could be met by closing a popular play area in the town, councillors have been warned.

It has led to a row over how the town council should spend its limited funds.

Councillors have been accused of planning to abandon a bread and butter service to fund the art project.

They have decided only to fund the Wyre Hill play area for another six months so that they can move forward with plans to illuminate the town bridge.

The town council currently pays £4,500-a-year for the upkeep of the play area which they claim is one of the biggest costs they face.

But colleagues on Wyre Forest District Council have said their budgets are already set and that they cannot take on the running costs of the playground.

District councillor Julian Phillips, who represents the Bewdley and Arley ward, said: "I find it alarming that lighting up Bewdley bridge in the dark is taking priority over the town's children in the eyes of the town council.

"The playground has been enjoyed by thousands of children over the years and I was one of them when I attended St Anne's Middle School. In uncertain economic times like we are now in, councils must provide bread-and-butter facilities and not abandon them for those that are aesthetically pleasing."

Town and district councillor Stephen Clee said: "The cost involved with the upkeep of Wyre Hill play area is not in the district council's budget and we don't have the funds to take this on. This could mean the play area will close in September."

Deputy mayor Derek Killingworth said: "The cost of upkeep is considerable and we have to weigh up what we feel is best for the town."

The town council will discuss the upkeep of the play area at a meeting on May 4.