RESIDENTS are celebrating after plans for new play equipment for children were submitted almost a year on from a popular playground being removed.

Proposals have been submitted to Hyndburn Council for an upgrade and expansion of the play area at Baxenden Recreational Ground in Hollins Lane.

In summer last year the nearby play area in Back Lane in Baxenden has had all its equipment torn from the ground and taken away, leaving residents 'furious' at the time.

However the council is now taking action to replace facilities in the area.

Cllr Terry Hurn, who represents the area on Hyndburn Council, said: "Ever since they removed the facilities in Back Lane we've been pushing for them to do something.

"I thought they would decide to do something over at the recreation ground because there is plenty of space.

"I'm just pleased the application has gone and and something will be happening, hopefully it will be approved, it is much needed.

"It's important kids have somewhere to go and somewhere to play outdoors."

Baxenden Community Forum have also been working with the council on the plans to improve and upgrade the play area, with questionnaires behind handed around last month for ideas.

A grant application has been put in for funding to see how much will be available to upgrade the facility.

Resident Alex Chadwick, who runs the Baxenden Neighbourhood watch, said:"I think it's wonderful news.

"It'd be somewhere for the kids to go out and play in Baxenden."

The plans are to include new items for play equipment including a basket swing, sling shot, swings, aerial runway and a small rotating see-saw.

The extension of the existing play area would be to the rear of the ballcourt onto a grassed area and would also stretch six metes towards Hollins Lane.

Council bosses said last year they would be looking to improve play facilities in the area after removing the equipment in Back Lane.

They said the old facility 'had come to the end of its life after more than 20 years' but the proposed new equipment would provide a boost to the area.

Cllr Ken Moss, cabinet members for parks, said: "Anything that provides new sport and play equipment is a good thing for the area.

"The recreation ground is one of those areas that could really do with the investment.

"It is a positive for residents the improved play area is coming to Baxenden after the old area in Back Lane had to be removed."