Local trader Richard Mayo who started the Facebook campaign to improve the Rope Walk play ground met a representative from Herefordshire Council last week.

He was very disappointed to discover from Fran White that there is no money available for improving play areas. He said:?"The first thing that was made very clear to me is that there is absolutely no budget, zilch, zero, zip! Herefordshire Playgrounds have had £0 budget for at least 10 years! All new playgrounds are funded by town councils, grants, businesses and the 106 budget which is a fund construction companies building in the area have to pay into. Unfortunately there has been no major construction in Ross so we're on our own as far as money goes.

"On the plus side Fran couldn't see any reason that we shouldn't be able to extend the play area as I have suggested, which is great news and I thought would be a real sticking point. She has offered to help in anyway she can with planning and form filling for grants etc. and she also given me some very useful contacts."

Fran told the Ross Gazette:?"Whilst Herefordshire Council cannot provide capital funding itself we can help any local community to raise funds, by helping with grant applications and by saving the community group from having to find 20% VAT.

"The community group that ends up taking on this challenge will need to do loads of consultation with local people and visitors to the area, so that we provide a super facility that children of all ages enjoy, whilst ensuring that the chosen equipment is long lasting and robust."

Richard is intending to set up a group under the umbrella of the Association of Ross Traders as it is necessary to have a formal means of applying for grants. Richard is a former chairman and is still on the committee of ART. He would welcome any feedback from residents or visitors to Ross about the play area and the plans which are being prepared.