A COMPREHENSIVE review of all Rossendale's open spaces is about to be commissioned by consultants.

A draft report is expected in July with consultants reviewing local playing fields, allotments, cemeteries, open spaces and green corridors.

They will research the standards required for sports and play facilities in the area.

User surveys will be carried out throughout the Valley to build up a picture of the popular and less popular facilities.

Community projects already in place and area forums will also be targeted for ideas and suggestions.

Ken Claxon, head of culture, said the consultants will look at why some facilities are not used and consider future trends in activity and associated provision.

He said: "It's the first time this has been done in Rossendale but it will give us a useful insight into what residents want and what they currently use.

"The project is part of government guidance to review open spaces and to find out what they are used for, when they are used and why they are used. It will also be used for planning guidance."

The final report will produce an open-plan strategy setting out the form and content of sport and play.

It will identify new facilities to meet the needs of the communities and identify sites that are no longer needed for sport and play.