RESIDENTS of a smart new Lydney estate say they are quite prepared to take responsibility for their 'village green' which they fear could be turned into a play area.
"It's a little hamlet within the town. We searched for a property like this on both sides of the Severn and eventually decided to settle here because it is so pleasant," said Paul Wharmby.
He says the green area provides a valuable open space which gives the estate, opposite St Mary's parish church, very much the "feel of a village."
Residents are now seeking legal advice following news that the space is planned to be a play area – though the town's Bathurst Park is only a few hundred yards away.
"I think I can say that without exception everyone here is against it. It was never mentioned in searches that it would be a play area and we are all opposed to it," he said.
Mr Wharmby says residents believe a play area would attract other youngsters onto the estate and it could lead to a lowering in the value of the houses.
"It is an important open space and while we may not be able to purchase it the residents are quite prepared to come to an agreement to care for it," he said.
After legal opinion has been obtained the residents plan to call a meeting to discuss a way forward.