A LONG-running campaign to complete a half-finished play area has finally been successful.

The land, where Pole Lane meets Roman Road in the Blacksnape area of Darwen, was partially refurbished with money made available by the government following the building of the Clearwater Village housing estate.

But there was only enough money for one end where play equipment was installed while the rest of the land was left covered in stones and unusable.

Now, after campaigning work by councillors Simon Huggill, Chris Thayne and Kevin Connor, the play area is being completed, with turf and a special football ‘kick wall’ which can be used as a goal.

Blackburn with Darwen Council have funded the cost of laying grass at the site, and the Lloyds Trust, who support projects and chari-table work in Darwen, have agreed to fund the £4,500 ‘kick wall’ which will be installed in the coming weeks.

Coun Huggill said that the facility would provide young people in the area with something to do.

He said: “This is quite a positive step.

“We are providing things for children so they have something to do with their time and do not get accused of hanging around, causing trouble.

“The Lloyds Trust are very good – I have enormous respect for what they do.”

Coun Alan Cottam, executive member for regeneration and envir-onment, said additional funding was being sought for more facilities.

He said: “We are at present resurfacing the play area and installing a football net and basketball net.

“We will be seeking additional funding for safety surfacing in due course.”