A COMMUNITY group has called for improvements to children's play facilities in one of the most deprived areas of Britain.

Burnley Wood Community Action Group (BWCAG) is lobbying for better provisions in the area after it was contacted by a young resident.

The 12-year-old sent a letter and accompanying petition, signed by 22 children, to BWCAG asking for help.

Chairman of the group, Brian Fenn, said the area, which is among the UK's 42 most deprived areas, according to figures from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

And he claims reports into the deprivation of Burnley Wood highlighted the lack of play area.

He said: "All we want is a simple play area in the core of Burnley Wood where parents can take their children and relax."

The group was formed last September to ensure the views of residents were heard and, after conducting a survey, approached Growingplaces - part of environmental group, Groundwork - who agreed to build a community garden and play area. But the council rejected it as they were planning a similar scheme.

In April, Mr Fenn said the group received a letter from the council's parks service unit stating the plan had been scrapped due to the Elevate proposals.

The play area in Brunswick Street has one goalpost, no lighting and the grass area, which once had swings and a roundabout, is covered in dog dirt.

Mr Fenn said other areas, like Danehouse and Piccadilly, have suitable areas and the group will continue to seek funding from a variety of sources, including the Single Regeneration Budget.

He said: "Children look with envy at others where play areas seem to have been allocated more than their fare share of the money available."

"We will again try to access funding to create a badly needed community play area in Burnley Wood."

But a spokesman for Burnley Council said plans for a village green were included in the Elevate redevelopment proposals for Burnley Wood, on land off Crowther Street.

He said: "The neighbourhood park will cater for young families and children and major improvements to the existing ball court in Brunswick Street will be undertaken."