CAMPAIGNERS are calling for a fence to be torn down because it will severely restrict access to a major Bolton park.

The Friends of Queen's Park group claims that the new security fence, which has been built at Chorley Street car park, blocking a way into Queen's Park, will put people off using the park particularly those from the Gilnow and Halliwell areas.

The group, which works in partnership with the council to help maintain the park, said it was not consulted about the decision to build the fence, which was put up last Friday.

The group said that the new fence would mean that park users will face a long walk along a muddy track to gain access.

Helen McHugh, a co-ordinator for the Friends of Queen's Park, said: "We couldn't believe it when we found out that the fence had been built. It blocks access into Queen's Park, from the Chorley Street car park end.

"The new fence will prevent people from using the park, particularly the disabled, who will find it difficult to get up the muddy track.

"We're also worried about the safety of people who use the park. If anything happens to anyone and they try and get out of the park from the Chorley Street car park end, then they will run into a fence.

"The park is popular with pedestrians and cyclists, who use it as a short cut to get to work in the town centre.

A Bolton Council spokesman said that new fence was needed to improve security and help reduce crime at Chorley Street car park.

He said: "There have been incidents of car crime, assaults and drug-related crime. Hopefully the new security fencing will help deter some of this crime."

He added: "We are willing to meet the Friends of Queen's Park to discuss the situation."

FENCE PROTEST: Kirsty Upham at the barred entrance to the park