SILT in Darwen’s Sunnyhurst Wood paddling pond could finally be cleared.

An application has been submitted to remove the material that has left the water contaminated.

Experts are now needed to maintain the pond by using a mini excavator to scrape away the silt and dispose of it safely.

Friends of Sunnyhurst Wood chairman Dennis Gillibrand is hoping that the council will approve the application following complaints.

He said: “People are complaining about the state of the water and it looks a mess.

“The paddling pool had been clean for the past 100 years and people could once enjoy paddling in it.

“This mess has been going on for more than two years and it needs sorting.”

Over the years the Friends of Sunnyhurst Wood have put £80,000 into the maintenance of the 85-acre wood.

But now the decision from Darwen Town Council Park’s Committee will determine the future of the pond.

In total £6,000 is needed to carry out the work.

Mr Gillibrand said: “Money from the park’s committee can be allocated to parks across the town including Bold Venture, Whitehall, Sunnyhurst and Ashton Park and following a unanimous vote, it’s clear that the paddling pond needs the money.

“We have waited long enough and the state of it causes concern.”

Sunnyhurst ward councillor Dave Smith has arranged a meeting with the Friend’s of Sunnyhurst Wood for August 23 to discuss the application.

Damage was also caused to drains and paths in June after heavy floods.