A PLAYGROUND described as ‘unsafe’ and ‘not-fit-for-purpose’ is to undergo a £100,000 makeover.

The play area off Station Road, Huncoat, is to be modernised using money donated by the developers behind the nearby Bluebell Way housing scheme.

Huncoat councillors have welcomed the facelift, which could get under way later this year.

Existing facilities in the park are ‘out-of-date’, Huncoat councillor Dave Parkins said.

Coun Parkins, from the Independents in Hyndburn party, said: “It’s something I have been negotiating alongside Huncoat’s Labour councillor Bernard Dawson for a while now.

“We’ve benefited largely due to the Bluebell Way development but also sourced cash from a number of outside bodies. It’s reached about £100,000 and it is much-needed.”

Part of the proposals, which have yet to be finalised, include plans for new equipment aimed at three to eight-year-olds, and a new access point.

Coun Parkins said: “It’s an issue that comes up every time I’m out canvassing people’s opinions.

“At the moment, there is access from Station Road and Lynwood Road but I think they want to create another entry on Lower Gate Road. We can’t put a time frame on it because these things take a lot of time to put contractors in place, but the money is in place and we’ll get the ball rolling soon. Hopefully it will get going this year.

“We’ve seen what’s happened with the wonderful play area at Bolton Avenue and it’s about time this end of the village had something similar.

“It will benefit the whole community, and it’s not before time.”