A DISUSED fishing site is to be turned into an urban oasis after a residents' association obtained a cash injection of £25,000.

Fern Gore Residents' Association plans to turn three derelict lodges into a haven for nature lovers and is looking for an extra £90,000 to complete the project.

The group acquired the 7,000 sq m site, at the rear of Rimington Avenue, Accrington, 18 months ago. It had been owned by an angling association but had become a magnet for fly-tippers.

Chairman of the residents' association John Drinkwater said: "It was very run down and overgrown. We want to turn it into a restful area where residents can come and relax."

Plans include putting tables and benches in, while walkways will be put in place so people can take a safe stroll around the water areas. The area will be secured at night.

The group have been allocated £20,000 from Lancashire Small Sites Reclamation Programme and £5,000 from Hyndburn Community Chest. They are currently awaiting the outcome of applications to SITA Trust and Big Lottery.

Mr Drinkwater added: "The basic cost is estimated at £90,000 but we are aiming for £115,000 so we can do the best possible job."

Residents are being given help from Lancashire County Council's environmental projects team, and have professionally drawn plans which will help them to apply for further grants.

Mr Drinkwater said: "The commitment of residents so far has been amazing and the voluntary work like cleaning out mattresses and tyres has had an effect already.

"Wildlife on the lodges like ducks, moorhens, Canadian geese, frogs, toads, newts and the many varieties of fish have benefited from our work and things can only continue to get better."

Coun Matthew Tomlinson said: "The residents' enthusiasm is a fine example for community groups everywhere."