A RECREATION group hoping to transform an area of open space has applied to Rossendale Council for planning permission so it can press ahead with its idea.

Cloughfold Recreation Action Group Ltd has also been granted a 25-year lease which could see the ambitious development take shape.

Rossendale Borough Council's Corporate Policy Sub-Committee agreed to the lease at Hareholme Lane, Cloughfold, to Cloughfold Recreation Action Group (C.R.A.G.).

The group plans to transform the land.

Plans include the creation of a children's play area, rock gardens, an amphitheatre for teaching and performances with seating, allotment gardens for local schools, a BBQ area and a picnic area.

Volunteer Christine Lomax is heading the scheme to improve the land, following concern that the site may be lost if the council chose to sell it for development.

The organisation has estimated that it will cost approximately £2,100 for annual maintenance to be covered by fundraising.

CRAG's Doorstep Green project, which has received funding of £3,500 from the New Opportunities Fund and the Countryside Commission, aims to receive around £100,000 when final proposals are submitted.

The plans have been submitted to Rossendale's planning department.