A loathed £17,000 'parklet' on a busy Stockport high street is set to be removed. The installation - paid for by the former Conservative government's Towns Fund, set up ex-ministers trying to 'level-up' the country - will soon be moved to a school.
Completed in 2021, it consists of wooden checking, benches as planters. It was built in a loading bay on the high street, designed by Broxap. The project cost £17,000.
It was aimed at 'bringing people together to relax and chat... giving shoppers and visitors a pleasant space to enjoy a breather and the opportunity to spend more time in the area'.
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In reality, locals said it looked out of place on the busy stretch lined with shops. "Who wants to sit right by the road while the traffic thunders past?", one person said on social media.
Councillors have now said the parklet will soon be moved to a school where it will be used as part of a sensory garden. The Lib Dems said in a statement: "The new location at the school promises to give the Parklet a renewed purpose, offering students a unique, green space for learning and recreation."
Councillor Ian Hunter added: "I'm delighted the parklet is moving. It is unpopular with shoppers and its move will enhance the High Street."
Residents have spoken of their approval of the plan. Nicholas Simpson said: "The parklet was a waste of money." Sue Williams added: "I will be glad to see this ugly box removed."
Approached for further comment on the parklet, councillors for Cheadle West and Gatley said in a statement: "It's been clear for some time that the parklet was not wanted in Cheadle. Many residents contacted the Lib Dem councillors to get it removed and we are delighted that its removal is finally happening.
"The parklet was celebrated by the former Secretary of State, Michael Gove. Perhaps it's therefore fitting it will be consigned to history, like the former government."
