RESIDENTS are being asked to have their say on plans for a new games area in a Hyndburn Park.

News that funding for the multi-use games area for Mercer Park had been obtained was revealed last night at a meeting of the Clayton and Altham Area Council.

And members of the public attending the meeting at Clayton Civic Hall were invited to look at and comment on proposals for the scheme, which will be on the site of tennis courts.

Coun Tim O'Kane, chairman of the area council, said: "This is good news and will enable Mercer Park to provide a full range of facilities and resources."

In a statement to the area council the parks development officer for Hyndburn Council said: "Following discussions between the council, Hyndburn First, the Local Strategic Partnership and the Friends of Mercer Park, an opportunity has arisen to carry out improvement work on the site of the tennis courts in Mercer Park in the form of a multi-use games area.

"Funds have been released through the New Opportunities Fund to provide facilities and activities aimed at reducing nuisance and anti-social behaviour in target areas.

"We are looking for comments on the proposed scheme."

In the summer the Mayor of Hyndburn, Coun Miles Parkinson, cut the ribbon on a new play area in Mercer Park which made it possible for disabled youngsters to play alongside more able-bodied friends.

The park, which was upgraded using £70,000 from Hyndburn Council, features equipment with climbing fences and slides.

It was designed with the help of local young people.