A ROW of demolished houses in Nelson has given way to a new play area for children and families.

The facility in Cliffe Street was opened by the Mayor of Pendle, Cllr Nawaz Ahmed, who met pupils from nearby Bradley Primary School.

And the schoolchildren wasted no time in trying out the swings, slides and roundabout.

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The site also features a memorial to local man Nisar Ahmed, who died last year leaving a young family and who had been the initial driving force behind the regeneration.

The Mayor and the leader Pendle Council, Cllr Mohammed Iqbal, both met Nisar’s eldest son Mohammed Awais, 17, and his youngest Kais Ali, seven, who unveiled the plaque in memory of their father.

Cllr Iqbal said: “Nisar was the first person to approach us to request that something be done with the empty properties on Cliffe Street. At that stage they were just boarded up.

“Sadly Nisar, who had lived on Cliffe Street for 11 years, died recently.

“A beautifully designed seating area, with a memorial plaque dedicated to him, has been placed in the play area for parents to use whilst they watch their children playing.”

Cllr Mohammed Sakib, who represents the Bradley ward, said: “As a parent who has lived in this area for over 20 years, I know it’s important to have a place where young children can enjoy fresh air and play out safely, near to home.

“This new play area has been created where a block of terraced houses at 3 to 15 Cliffe Street was demolished as part of the regeneration of Bradley. Consultation was carried out to find out what local residents wanted and a play area was a popular choice.”

Rehana Iqbal, from Bradley Primary School, said: “Pupils on the school council were asked what kind of play equipment they would like. Now it’s finished they’re delighted with it. Our school will be able to make good use of it.”