RESIDENTS are split over plans to install a cycle track on a playing field in Breightmet.

Bolton council is holding a consultation about plans to install a fenced off track on the playing field at New House Farm in a bid to increase cycling and provide a community facility for the town's growing cycle and fitness clubs.

But the plans have been met with mixed feelings between cyclists who are in favour of a dedicated track and residents near the field who are concerned about the impact the development could have on their homes.

On Wednesday the council and members of the town's cycling groups, including British Cycling, Bolton Triathlon Club and Bolton Hot Wheels, held a public drop in session to provide more information on the proposals and to allay fears that residents have.

British Cycling development officer Phil Ball said the track was essential if the town's cycling clubs were to continue their growth. He said: "At the moment there are other tracks but they are quite far away for the community to travel and we've got a lot of clubs here. The aim is to build a facility and what will happen hopefully is those riders who outgrow the facilities on offer will be able to continue. We'll be able to hold more cycling sessions for the community and also more for disabled riders."

Keith Warriner who is a member of Bolton Hot Wheels along with his son Ben added: "Looking at it from the children's perspective it's a cracking idea and the benefits would be astonishing."

The new cycle track would be installed on the part of the playing field that back onto the Beechcroft Avenue and stretch down the length of the field towards Brodick Drive, according to the plans presented to the public on Wednesday.

It is also proposed to fence off the track to limit access.

Residents who live close to the field have raised a number of concerns about the plans included the installation of flood lights on the track, anti-social behaviour, flooding and a build up of traffic problems if more people visit from outside the community to use the track.

But some who attended the meeting were turned around on the plans.

Valerie Bailey lives near the playing fields and said she originally attended the meeting to complain.

But after seeing the plans she said: "I think it's a good idea now, I think it's great. It's something for the children to use and many of them will have adults with them when they're using it."

But Michael Quinton who lives in Blenheim Road, said: "There is a lot of opposition from residents who live near the field about this. It only services the few and the council wants to spends tens of thousands of pounds to be wasted on something that most people don't even want."