The Backies in Lache re-opens

22/05/2026

A free family event on Wednesday 27th May (12pm to 3pm) will mark the reopening of the Backies in Lache, following the transformation of the site into a green space area for wildlife and residents to enjoy.

The event with local community groups and Chester Zoo’s Networks for Nature team will include free food and refreshments, nature scavenger hunt, natural art and crafts, litter picking, books and storytelling. It’s an opportunity to explore and get involved in the beautiful new community green space.

Work started last year clearing a considerable amount of fly-tipped waste, followed by constructing an accessible path, installing seating areas and signage, and creating a welcoming gate to the 8-hectare site.

The improvements are designed to make the Backies a more inclusive space, inviting more people and families to get outside in nature.

New information panels tell a brief history of the site; the name Backies comes from the land sitting ‘at the back’ of houses on streets like St. Marks Road, Oak Road and Barwoods Drive. The history of the area is closely tied to the industrial development of the surrounding Saltney region, which was historically known for brickmaking, shipbuilding and ironworks.

A nature panel shows some of the plants and wildlife to look out for and explains the work being carried out by a group of volunteers, with support from ecologists and Chester Zoo, to support smaller habitat improvements and longer term care for the site.

The Backies transformation is part of the Lache Action Plan, made possible thanks to funding from the FCC Communities Foundation and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with support from Chester Zoo and local development partners.