A POCKET size park scheme will give Bickershaw youngsters somewhere to play.

Although the mini play area was attacked by environmental watchdogs, planners have now passed the project which has local councillors' backing.

Leigh Central ward representative Cllr Kath Thomas said she felt any fears that the park would attract teenage rowdies were unfounded.

She said: "Bickershaw Residents' Association members have worked very hard on this project.

"They will police the site themselves and the play equipment -- a swing and basketball court -- are designed for children 12 years or under.

"The basketball net is only five feet high.

"I think this park will be a good thing for Bickershaw -- the kids have nothing to do. We think any disturbance will be minimal and if there are any initial problems they will be quickly dealt with."

Community group Bickershaw Residents' Association has raised funds, boosted by £1,000 of Brighter Borough money, to pay for the play area in an area of waste land behind homes in Beacon Road, Belmont Avenue and Church Avenue.

Planners considered one objection from two people living on the estate and others on noise and disturbance grounds from the council's environmental health department.