YOUNGSTERS in Burnley could get a bright new park and floodlit ball court if planners give the scheme the go-ahead.

Councillors have been recommended to approve plans to transform Fulledge Play Area, Mitella Street, Burnley.

A resident living in the area raised objections to the creation of a 'football pitch' by claiming it would create noise and nuisance and litter.

The resident said there was enough provision for youngsters as they can go to nearby Towneley Park.

Burnley Council are proposing to provide a three-metre high fence to surround the park and ball court.

The authority has been working alongside the residents to come up with a suitable scheme in a bid to increase resources for youngsters to use in the area.

Susan Graham, head of planning services, said: "This proposal is the result of meetings with residents' groups in the surrounding area.

"A neighbouring resident is concerned that this proposal will increase the nuisance caused by youths on the park until the early hours.

"This is an existing social problem but the provision of new equipment on the existing play area in itself will not increase the disturbance to neighbouring residents."

A condition is proposed on any approval restricting the opening hours of the floodlights to prevent any unnecessary disturbance from the use of the play area.

Under the planning restrictions the floodlights should only be used between 9am and 9pm unless further permission is sought and granted.