CONCERNED residents gathered at a meeting to discuss controversial proposals for a zip wire at Charlton Lakes.

The extraordinary meeting, held on November 1, saw neighbours and lake users air their views to Charlton Parish Council about the potential to construct a 220m twin zip line, as well as a high and low ropes course and a 10-metre-high climbing frame.

The gathering was held after an application was submitted by leisure provider Places for People to Test Valley Borough in which the company states that the attractions will continue the site as a “destination of choice for the whole family”.

Residents raised concerns about the increase in parking at the site, with around 18,000 users predicted each year, the potential to attract trouble to the site, and the loss of a "lovely" family destination.

One resident said: “There is no way of closing the centre at night, this coupled with the fact that there are no nearby keepers or the local constabulary.

“While the lakes are not designated a wildlife area, Anton Lakes and river are and the lakes here are the main feeder to it. With these wires going across it is going to be a nightmare for them [the wildlife].

Another resident said they were ”astounded” that the application had been submitted.

“It is such a lovely place, it is a shame they are doing this - it really is.”

It was put forward that the company could look at constructing the attractions close to the BMX track, which many agreed would lessen the impact.

Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Phil Wylde said: “When I first heard about the zip wire I thought what a great idea but looking at the plans I started to change my mind... this is totally the wrong thing to be installed.

“It would get used for a number of months and then it would become the white elephant.”

Cllr Wylde added that he disliked that some of the trees were classed as “no significant importance to the area” in plans to chop them down.

Concerns were also raised about the noise as many who live close by expressed annoyance that the leisure provider had not taken into account screams coming from users.

Councillor Clive Ward added that the length of the zip wire was “absurd”, while Councillor Jody Morgan added: “Looking at this and having heard what everyone’s views are, it is not fitting for the area. I don’t think we have got the amenities to be able to sustain it. It is absurd.

Council chairman Councillor Jacqueline Smith and other members agreed to write to TVBC to air their objection to the plans.