A housing developer says there is no space for a play area it had promised on a Workington estate.

Persimmon Homes built the 92-home Forgehill Park off Mossbay Road. As part of the planning conditions, it agreed to build a play area.

But Persimmon Homes did not comply with the condition and it has now applied to Allerdale council to remove it.

It said: “Space for a suitable play area is limited and an on-site location cannot be demonstrated.

“This is either due to being in close proximity to occupied dwellings, unsuitable topography or limited space due to the road and site boundary.

“In lieu of this removal, we are prepared to agree to a reasonable commuted sum figure which will go to support the development of an alternative play area within the locality.”

Workington Town Council objected to the application, saying the play area was necessary.

A spokeswoman for Allerdale council said: “The original planning application required the developer to submit details of the play equipment for planning officers’ approval prior to work starting, with its installation being completed before the occupation of the 80th dwelling.

“A decision regarding enforcement will be made pending the outcome of the current application.”

She said residents and interested parties have until August 31 to send their views to the council on the plan.