HASLEMERE Town Council has agreed to abandon an idea to install barbeque surfaces on Lion Green after taking advice from police who feared they might attract youths to congregate in the area and the potential for litter and damage.

The council also heard last week the idea was also unpopular with residents. In contrast, picnic tables installed recently had proved popular.

Councillors agreed money set aside, with quotes of up to £1,047 to install two patio areas, would be referred to the amenities committee to be spent on other Lion Green projects.

Two more picnic tables are to be installed, costing £1,000. A total of £200 will come from the town council and the rest from developers’ contributions via Waverley Borough Council.