Lache Action Plan
The Backies / LAPA Fields
The proposal for the Backies is to improve a former landfill site as a space for wildlife and biodiversity and for residents to enjoy as a green space in their neighbourhood.
Where are we now?
The project has secured funding from FCC Communities Foundation; and in partnership with Chester Zoo, funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, as well as a contribution from local development in the area.
The plan, developed with local residents, is for an improved green space including all-weather paths, viewing point and seats across the 8-hectare (18 acre) former landfill site. The main focus is on enhancing the area for wildlife and creating a welcoming area for residents to enjoy being in nature.
Work started on site in November 2025 to transform The Backies into a green space for residents to enjoy and wildlife to thrive. The site has remained closed while larger machinery has been doing main works for health and safety reasons, but will be re-opened as soon as possible when it is safe to do so.
Progress to date
- Work to remove illegal fly-tipping is now complete
- Accessible all-weather pathways should be complete by the end of February
- Seats being installed at various points across the site
- Wood carving artist – is creating a bespoke sweet-chestnut bench that will feature wildlife found on site
- New gates, based on designs from local residents are well underway and are due to be installed in March
- Wheelchair accessible kissing- gate will be fitted to the left of the main entrance gate in March.
Gates under construction
Work has now started to create accessible all-weather pathways, so that more people can experience green spaces and nature in their own community
New gates have been designed with input from local residents and children are now being manufactured
Progress has been made in clearing up illegal fly-tipping on the site
Pathways under construction (before compacting/smooth upper layers added). Some brambles/grasses cut back but vegetation will grow back quickly in Spring- overseen by ecologist
Pathways under construction (before compacting/smooth upper layers added). Some brambles/grasses cut back but vegetation will grow back quickly in Spring- overseen by ecologist.
Gates under construction
Work has now started to create accessible all-weather pathways, so that more people can experience green spaces and nature in their own community
Aerial view of The Backies site - a green haven in the heart of Lache
Work has now started to create accessible all weather pathways - so that more people can experience green spaces and nature in their own community.
Next steps
Subject to works completing to schedule, site will be re-opened in March.
An opening event will be planned for May 2026, we are asking if residents or any local groups would like to be involved in shaping this, please contact ChesterLocality@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
On-going habitat and community improvements will be continued by a volunteer led group, with support from the Chester Zoo led Networks for Nature project and Council’s Ecologists. To join the volunteer group contact HealthRanger@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
Our funding partners
