A NEW community drop-in centre Burnley Wood residents will officially open its doors next month.

The Branch Road centre is a joint venture between Accent North West and Burnley Wood Community Action Group.

Organisers said it proved a popular and useful resource for the community when the team ran the centre for children over the school holidays, with safe play areas and access to computers.

The group has also successfully lobbied the council and other agencies to secure funding towards the building of a new community park in Burnley Wood.

The centre's official launch will be on Wednesday, December 1, with a drop-in lunch for partners in the community, such as police, councillors, community wardens and other community groups.

The public opening is on Saturday, December 4, with residents from Burnley Wood, free competitions, refreshments and Santa giving away gifts to youngsters.

Lorraine Prentice, tenancy services officer for Accent, said: "The drop-in centre gives Burnley Wood residents a focal point where they can tap into the internet or take advice about security or anti-social behaviour.

"The team there has been very successful in securing funding for improvements, which will make an enormous positive impact on the area, such as the building of a new community park where children can play safely.

"Burnley Wood Community Action Group does outstanding work and Accent North West are proud to be able to play our part."

Accent North West owns and manages more than 4,500 homes in the North West. It is part of Accent Group, a national Community Investment Organisation working to enhance the quality of life and opportunities for people through the provision and management of appropriate housing, community facilities and support services.