THE transformation of a former fly-tipping hotspot into a sensory garden, community shop and mobile workshop in Burtonwood has featured on Channel 4.

George Clarke's Amazing Spaces included The Puddle community project on its programme tonight, Sunday.

The land on Fearnley Wood on Old Alder Lane, which was previously blighted by fly-tipping, is now a self-sustaining social enterprise while providing an educational facility for those with additional needs.

Children from Foxwood School were featured on the programme.

READ > Warrington's first vegan supermarket opens in town centre

Warrington Guardian:

George Clarke's programme was screened on Sunday

The Puddle community project, which is the culmination of three years of work, could also house a tearoom.

Writing in the planning documents to Warrington Borough Council, the developer said: “Originally a derelict piece of land used for fly-tipping, it has taken three years to introduce the flora, fauna and wildlife irrigation pools which have given us Fearnley Wood or as it is affectionately referred to as ‘the puddle’. 

“The Puddle is currently a privately-owned piece of land which provides fruit, veg and a sustainable source of fuel to friends and family.

“The Puddle Project is to conscientiously and innovatively develop Fearnley Wood with the assistance of the community into a self-sustaining social enterprise that can continuously evolve bringing physical and mental well.”

READ > Mink spotted with drowned tortoise in Sankey Valley Park

A number of documents in support of the project have been published on the council planning website as some parts of the site are still to be completed.

Cllr Cathy Mitchell and Terry O’Neill (LAB – Burtonwood and Winwick) praised the developer for his focus on sustainability and community wellbeing due to the desire for the facility to be powered by renewal energy resources.

The head teacher of Foxwood School Lucinda Duffy hailed the plans as an exciting project that would benefit the pupils and their families.