A COMMUNITY-LED scheme that aims to reduce juvenile nuisance in Rawtenstall has scooped £10,000 to create a new skate and ball park.

Total cost of the project is £75,000, most of which has been secured from various sources. It's hoped the project in Edgeside Park will be completed by the end of summer.

The United Utilities Landcare programme, managed by Groundwork North West, awarded Edgeside Youth Provision Project the latest cash to help create the multi-purpose ball court, BMX and skate park.

Currently the only open space available to children and teenagers in the Edgeside Estate area is a disused tennis court.

Mark Bolton, community project officer at Groundwork Rossendale, said: "It's hoped that play equipment will reduce the number of youth-related nuisance and disorder.

"The space in Edgeside Park will be used by skaters, skateboards, scooters and BMXs and a new marked surface, incorporating a teen-zone football, cricket, netball and basketball are all included in the plans."

Funding from Sport England Small Sites Reclamation Programme, Lancashire County Council Youth and Community Project and Living Space, who distribute money on behalf of the Deputy Prime Minister will help make the dream come true.

David Crawshaw, United Utilities environment manger, said: "United Utilities Landcare aims to improve small areas of derelict land that have been the cause of real problems for the local community.

"Derelict land is not only an eyesore to the community, but it can also contribute to negative perceptions of the area and discourage new investment."