PARKSIDE THE THIRD OPTION

The revised Parkside Proposal encompasses an extensive area approaching two miles, providing substantial capacity for both state-of-the-art logistics facilities and a carefully designed country park to serve as a protective green buffer. Our vision includes the establishment of accessible nature / heritage walks originating from Lowton, Kenyon/Croft, Newton, and Winwick, all connected via dedicated green corridors, across east and west of M6. The area would be managed as a designated nature reserve, guided by a robust management plan with explicit objectives, designed around the industry footprint.

Key components of this management plan would include:

• Regular habitat monitoring – Annual surveys to assess the status of local flora and fauna, with published reports for community transparency.
• Community involvement programmes – Organised volunteer days for habitat restoration, citizen science initiatives, and educational workshops for local schools.
• Conservation targets – Defined goals transparent to the public and volunteer groups
• Biodiversity action plans – Measures to attract and support priority species and range of species as close as possible to previous county records.

To create a truly significant local amenity, the country park could feature:

• Picnic areas and outdoor seating, sensitively placed to enjoy views while minimising disturbance to wildlife.
• Interpretive and educational signage explaining the site's unique ecology and rich local history.
• Designated wildlife observation points and accessible bird hides.
• Safe, well-maintained walking and cycling paths linking surrounding communities.
• Seasonal events or guided walks led by local experts to foster ongoing community engagement.

By embracing these recommendations, Parkside can become a model of responsible development—enhancing local wellbeing, safeguarding natural heritage, and setting new standards for sustainable progress.
 

NEWTON PARK

The area under development for Parkside today in medieval times was known as Newton Park. This history along with the wildlife and local enjoyment of the green space today contributes to the case for a country park around the developments.

Some background to Newton Park.

The earliest record of Newton Park dates to 1322, documenting a theft within its grounds. Another reference from 1412 discusses land and grazing rights in the park. Throughout the late medieval period, many parks like Newton were converted to pasture or farmland due to upkeep costs. By the 17th century, the park had been subdivided and partially enclosed, as shown by historical maps and records. In 1657, William Bankes acquired Newton Park, which remained in his family's hands for over 200 years. The 1839 Tithe map outlines the estate's boundaries, showing some changes due to road construction.

Despite limited visible evidence, remnants of boundary banks and hollow-ways hint at the park’s medieval past. Dr. Richard Kuerden, a 17th-century historian, described traveling through Newton Park in 1695, referencing significant local landmarks and highlighting the area's role in historical events such as the Battle of Winwick Pass. Newton Le Willows boasts a rich history, much of it centred around Newton Park, with events often marked by conflict and change.

THE BLOODSTONE AND THE DUEL OF THE KNIGHT’s 

Local children have long spat on the bloodstone along Winwick Road to watch it turn red—a ritual linked to the legend of two knights fighting over a lady, resulting in the death of a Welsh knight. Some sources report that Sir William became an outlaw after the 1315 Banastre rebellion, and that the tale of the Welsh knight’s death masks Sir William’s own killing by Sir Henry de Bury's relatives in 1333. Regardless of its origins, the bloodstone remains a notable part of the site’s enduring legend.

BATTLE OF WINWICK PASS 

Part One

After their defeat at Preston, the Royalist Scottish Army split, with one group led by the Duke of Hamilton retreating south toward Warrington. Pursued by Cromwell’s Parliamentary forces, they marched through Newton despite poor conditions. Hamilton ordered Lieutenant-General Baily to defend a naturally fortified pass near Newton, hoping to delay the Parliamentarians so he could secure Warrington Bridge. Baily fortified positions at Red Bank and Hermitage Green Lane, deploying infantry and musketeers strategically to hold off Cromwell until nightfall.
At midday, Cromwell’s troops reached Newton, set up headquarters nearby, and quickly prepared for an assault to dislodge the Scots from their defensive position.

Part Two

Colonel Bright’s regiment attacked the Scottish centre, but after hours of resistance, Cromwell paused to await reinforcements. Local guides showed Cromwell a route to flank the Scottish, leading to a decisive cavalry manoeuvre. As the Parliamentarians attacked both flanks and centre, the Scots were overwhelmed—about a thousand killed, two thousand captured, and survivors fled toward Winwick. Some made a final stand near Winwick Church before surrendering; those remaining were captured or killed. Baily then surrendered at Warrington Bridge, giving up all arms and men as prisoners.
Hamilton escaped but was eventually captured and executed; other leaders either escaped abroad or were captured. The Second Civil War ended shortly after.

GALLOWS CROFT 

A site just to the north of Hermitage Green Lane is where Gallows Croft situated. The Main claim for the name "Gallows Croft" was the Baronial court of the Lords of Newton dating back to Normans, which is recorded to have resided in Newton (the Court said to be next to St Peters Church in an Inn, where the Stocks Public House now reside). The Court tried the crimes the unfortunate, who were either put in 'the stocks' or sent to Gallows Croft and hung till nothing was left. This would mean there could have been several (many) of these unfortunates in a state: 'Just Hung' to 'Hung several years ago' hence the name Gallows Croft arose.  This would send out a message of warning to any traveller, to pass through area in peace!

ST OSWALDS WELL

Legend holds that a well at Newton Park sprang up when England's first Christian king, St. Oswald, was killed in battle by Penda, King of the Mercians. While some claim Oswestry is where Oswald fell, historical sources like Bede suggest Winwick as the true site and describe the well as man-made rather than a natural spring. Over centuries, the water from the well has been credited with healing powers, inspiring many to collect it for medicinal use. The location, once marked by Osiers Cottage—linked to willow basket makers—now features moss-covered stones, but during the battle, wounded soldiers were likely treated nearby using water from St Oswald’s brook.

NEWTON PARK BARN

Newton Park Barn, still standing as a grade 2 listed building, has a notable history. Anecdotal evidence suggests its predecessor may have served as Cromwell's headquarters during the Battle of Winwick Pass. The current barn was constructed in the mid-17th century after William Bankes bought the estate in 1657, with records mentioning a pre-existing barn later converted into a dwelling known as Park Barn or "the lodge." It's speculated that Cromwell regrouped at Newton Park Lodge, taking advantage of its elevation for observation, possibly guided by locals living nearby.