MAJOR changes to Stanpit recreation ground in Christchurch have been given the green light despite the concerns of some residents.

A 12-week consultation earlier this year saw more than 400 people respond to the proposals to improve the popular park and make it more attractive for families.

However, a petition signed by 701 people, was submitted to the council but ruled inadmissible due to a number of irregularities, including the lead petitioner not being identified and signatures on pages without full petition details.

The petition was objecting to the car park extension, dog agility area and boardwalk across Ashtree Meadows.

A new petition citing the same objections was signed by more than 560 people and given to the council just 24 hours before a community services meeting on Wednesday, where members discussed the plans for Stanpit Rec.

Councillors approved plans for a car park extension, improved entrance points and information signs, better entrance for cyclists, wildflower meadows with mown footpaths, improved seating and benches and improved views over the marsh and harbour.

There will also be play structures for youngsters.

But they were concerned about the proposals for a dog agility area and fitness and activity points, leaving those for further discussion between officers and ward councillors.

Cllr Mike Duckworth said about the agility centre: “We are spending money for the sake of it. It is nonsense. As for wildflower meadows, I think they have the potential to become the biggest dogs’ toilet in Christchurch if we are not careful.”

Cllr David Jones said he hoped officers would reconsider the ‘dog gym’ proposals.

Cllr Ray Nottage, leader of the council and ward councillor, said: “I understand how difficult it is to accept change in certain areas, but I feel that as a responsible council we have to look to these facilities and make the best of them and be responsible in that way.”