GRANTS totalling £77,000 have been earmarked to improve play areas across the Ribble Valley and install a 3G artificial pitch in Clitheroe.

Ribble Valley Borough councillors will vote next Tuesday on to budgets for the work which could be completed by the end of the year if given the go-ahead.

A fund of £30,000 could go towards improving the council’s 17 play areas which will aim to address health and safety concerns over the condition of the equipment.

The scheme is the result of an independent assessment of play areas and an increase in complaints relating to the removal and non-replacement of equipment and the general appearance and condition of facilities.

A further £47,000 could go towards a 3G artificial pitch to replace three tennis courts in Clitheroe.

The start date is dependent on the success of a grant application for further funding to Sport England and if successful and approved, the work could be undertaken in the summer.