PLAYING fields steeped in history look set to be overhauled – and the council wants to know what residents think about it.

Cheshire East Council and its arms-length company Ansa have launched a consultation on the Browns Lane Playing Fields, which could soon feature new play areas, a grass pitch and event space, and a multi-use games area.

An improved pond, shared-use footpath and cycleway and new timber benches are also on the cards, while a variety of trees and plants are set to be added to the site.

In its masterplan for the playing fields, CEC said: “As a valuable green space this proposal aims to develop an exciting, diverse and attractive public space for a growing community.

“It also aims to protect and enhance the site’s biodiversity for future generations.”

The playing fields are believed to have previously been part of the Browns Lane Farm, and the pond which is set for improvement has been a feature there for more than 100 years.

By 1910 the site was divided into two fields while residential development took place nearby, and the Royal Air Force had a site to the west of the fields from the 1940s until 1975.

The council says it will use these historical connections as the theme for the fields’ new play areas – with one for toddlers, and another for juniors.

As part of the plans to protect biodiversity, four different types of trees are set to be planted in the playing fields – hawthorns for supporting wild birds, alders which attract butterflies and moths, river birches and oaks, which attract a wide variety of wildlife.

Mixed bulbs and wild flowers will also be planted to further support wildlife in the fields.

The pond, which is believed to have drained into a ditch by the old farm to provide water for cattle, will also feature an improved drainage system and have flowers planted alongside it.

To see the masterplan for Browns Lane Playing Fields, visit cheshireeast.gov.uk/pdf/leisure,-culture-and-tourism/browns-lane-wilmslow-masterplan-consultation.pdf