AMBITIOUS plans for the redevelopment of a Clitheroe park are set to go ahead after receiving the backing of the council.

Plans to expand and improve Salthill play area can now be moved forward after councillors said they would be prepared to pay extra maintenance costs in the future.

Tower Hill Youth Action Group raised the prospect of a redevelopment at the park 12 months ago, and now with the help of Lancashire County Council it has secured £50,000 and finalised designs for the project.

The proposals would see the current play area improved and expanded, with new play equipment, sports pitches, climbing walls and garden areas.

Coun Simon Farnsworth, who represents the Salthill ward, said the current equipment at the park was not up to standard.

He said: “At the moment the park has some play equipment on it that is quite worn out and under used.

“It is being targeted by older teenagers gathering there late at night.

"These plans would see the park become much used again and would be a great benefit for Salthill.

“This scheme has enthused young people in the area and will be pretty well used and respected.”

Coun John Hill said: “It is a disgrace at the moment,” he said.

“I feel ashamed allowing children to play on this standard of equipment.

“All credit to the residents and youngsters of Salthill for putting all the work in and pushing this through.”

The plans mean the council may have to increase its £50,000 yearly budget that currently caters for the borough’s 18 play areas.