Improvement works worth £40,000 have started on an East Lancashire children’s play area that was deemed “unfit for purpose”.

Earlier this week, work commenced on Kirby Road Play Area, by Wolseley Street in Ewood, and various improvements will be taking place.

The swings are set to be replaced, old equipment removed and the climbing frames are set to be repainted.

Whilst the work is ongoing, the play equipment won't be accessible.

Works are due to be completed in around one month, depending on the weather.

This is just one of the improvements taking place across green spaces and parks in Blackburn with Darwen this year, with others including £100,000 investment at Blacksnape Playing Fields in Darwen.

Councillors are looking forward to seeing the play area when it is finished and say it will be a great addition for the area.

Jim Casey, councillor for the Ewood Ward and assistant executive member for environment, said: “It’s fantastic that the works have started at Kirby Road Play Area - this is something we’ve been really eager to see.

“£40,000 has been allocated to replace age-old equipment and provide some upgrades, including repainting the climbing frame and replacing the swings, as part of section 106 money.

“The previous ward councillor, Maureen Bateson, was very supportive and keen to get the project off the ground and she can’t wait to see it finished, along with myself and fellow ward councillor, Elaine Whittingham.

“We hope to see plenty of young people and families in the area enjoying the improvements in the near future.”

Cllr Whittingham said the council has been campaigning for these improvements to be made.

She said: "We have been campaigning for improvements to this park for some time so it's great news that the work has now started. The current facility had become unfit for purpose.

“This will now offer a great place for all local families to share on the improved park they deserve."