Lean green machine
GARDENERS at Chorley's Astley Park have just taken delivery of a new vehicle that will make it easier to keep the park looking beautiful throughout the summer.
Thousands of people enjoy themselves in the Chorley Council-run park each year and the new four wheel drive buggy will help manage the woodland, keep footpaths clear and maintain the flowering gardens.
Councillor Eric Bell, Chorley Council's Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, said: "The new machine is a lot more versatile. It means that our gardeners can reach all parts of the magnificent Astley Park a lot easier saving time and money .
"It has four wheel drive so it will go anywhere, even through the densely wooded areas where other vehicles can't go, and even over the open sports pitches without causing any damage.
"It is an ideal tool for our gardeners to keep the park a place we can be proud of."
The £8,000 John Deere Gator Utility Vehicle can carry two people and has a trailer unit which can be attached to the back to carry equipment. It replaces a cumbersome and fuel-hungry cab meaning it is more environmentally friendly and will save the council money in running costs and staff time.
The new vehicle will be used in Chorley Council's Astley Park which has become a fantastic place for all the family to visit since it benefited from a £3million Heritage Lottery funded revamp.
