The announcement of plans to turn a patch of derelict ground in Barrow into a wellbeing garden has been met with a largely positive response from readers.

The application to turn an area of waste ground into a garden to help people suffering from difficulties with their mental health has been scrutinised by the borough council's planning committee.

The submission relates to a patch of land in School Street that has been vacant since a church was demolished in 2011, and has been put forward by mental health charity Mind in Furness, who call the scheme, 'Wasteland to Wellbeing', and cite in their summary statement:

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"Mind In Furness wishes to 'acquire' the land and with the support of partners, funders, and the local community, transform it into a community garden with a focus on mental wellbeing, an area of green space in a deprived community, a space that encourages involvement, cohesion, and offers all the well-publicised benefits of accessing outdoor space."

Mail reader Amy Hamblin was very much in favour of the proposal:

"Perfect use for this piece of land. 

"Looking forward to seeing it when complete.

Chris Kirkby agreed, saying: "A good idea, Mind would make full use of it and even get some of its users involved in making it a more lovely place."

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The sentiment has not been echoed across the board, however, with some arguing that prioritising areas for children would be a more important use of the land, as Martin Clarke said:

"A nice little park for the kids would be better."

A report produced by case officer Jennifer Dickinson ahead of the planning committee meeting said:

"The site is to be used daily for eco-therapy and a variety of wellbeing activities and social opportunities.

"It is to serve the people of Barrow-in-Furness, but particularly the residents of Central ward and those experiencing poor mental health and under referral to Mind in Furness."

The report said a garden on display at the Chelsea Flower Show was to be relocated to the site.

Ms Dickinson recommended that authority for determination of the application be delegated to the borough council's head of development management.

The planning committee agreed to this proposal.