A ROW has broken out over plans to axe one of the play areas in a Hampshire town.

Totton and Eling Town Council wants to close the play park at Calmore Road and move the equipment to similar facilities elsewhere in the town.

It follows a survey of people living near the play area known as the Green Route.

The council wrote to 100 residents, just four replied. Three said they wanted the play area to be removed and only one said it should remain.

However, Councillor Alan Weeks criticised plans.

He said: “This council has always prided itself on improving play areas, not closing them. This particular facility is on the Green Route and quite a few of the people who use it don’t necessarily live in the vicinity.”

A proposal to refer the issue back to the amenities committee was defeated by 11 votes to six.