ELY is a step closer to a new country park after detailed plans for the �5 million project were given unanimous approval by councillors. Members of the community services committee met on Thursday (May 14) to consider the details of extensive project plan

ELY is a step closer to a new country park after detailed plans for the �5 million project were given unanimous approval by councillors.

Members of the community services committee met on Thursday (May 14) to consider the details of extensive project plans in a presentation given to them by designers, Shiels Flynn.

After taking the opportunity to comment on the proposals and question the designers themselves, councillors opted to unanimously back the proposals, with their approval clearing the way for the designers to forge ahead with the plans.

Council chief executive, John Hill, told the Ely Standard: "The plans for the country park are really exciting and offer a real chance to create a green space for Ely, to be enjoyed by both young and old.

"We decided at the beginning of the process that we would listen to what the public wanted and I believe that the proposals represent a positive balance between access, fun and conservation."

Mr Hill's sentiments were echoed by chairman of the committee Cllr Allyson Broadhurst, she said: "It has been a very robust process and the members of the committee would like to thank the public for giving this project their full support."

The new country park will see the development of large swathes of land around Ely including areas of Roswell Pitts and Ely Common in the east and areas of the Ouse washes to the south.

With the committee's backing in place, Shiels Flynn can now submit a meticulous planning application, which if approved, will allow work to begin on the first phase of the project, which will see the construction of miles of cycle paths and walking routes.

The first phase of work, which is scheduled for completion by 2011, will also include work on the pocket park play area, pedestrian links into the city and a visitor centre. According to plans, all three phases of the work are due to be completed by the end of 2012.

An overview of the area in which designers hope to develop the new country park. Photo: SUPPLIED.