AN extra £785,000 is being ploughed into projects to spruce up Bury's six towns.

Town hall bosses will spend the money over the next three years on improving parks and public spaces.

The cash follows a £5million investment under the council's "cleaner, safer, greener" initiative.

The allocation comprises:

l £210,000 for improvements at Barnfield Park, Hollinhurst Park and Manchester Road Park in Bury, and a park ranger base in Nuttall Park, Ramsbottom.

l £180,000 for local schemes to be decided by the six area boards.

l £150,000 for improved street scene standards, and introducing borough-wide colour schemes.

l £140,000 on youth facilities, including "ballzones" at Rainsough in Prestwich and in Tottington, plus equipment in Close Park, Radcliffe.

l £60,000 on footpaths and lighting, including a new pathway in Ramsbottom from Great Eaves Road to the baths, and lighting at Town Meadow, Tottington; Manchester Road Park, Bury; Bolton Road Park, Radcliffe and Clarence Park, Bury between Royal Avenue and Delamere Street

l £45,000 for street furniture such as benches, dog waste bins and litter bins.

Councillor John Byrne, executive member for environment and transport said the council had received terrific feedback about its "cleaner, safer, greener" programme.

"This extra money is an important investment which will contribute to a number of council objectives such as providing better opportunities for young people, improving cultural and sporting opportunities, strengthening communities, promoting healthier living and improving our town centres and neighbourhoods."