Tyldesley's most popular park will be cashing in on summer thanks to a windfall which will make it a lighter, safer place to play.

Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust (WLCT) has announced a major investment programme, which will see a host of improvements at Astley Street Park.

More than £41,000 will be spent on a host of upgrades including new street lighting and more cash for the multi-use ball court. There will also be cash for tree-planting, repairs to the footpaths and improving drainage.

The funding is one of the first results of the new Astley/Tyldesley Township - which has seen different groups banding together to help make a difference.

The township's Community Safety Group has looked at the best way of improving the park's facilities and will pay for new and improved street lights.

Tyldesley East's councillors Stephen Hellier, Alan Stephenson and Brian Wilson used Brighter Borough funding to pay for further improvements to the ball court facilities.

Wigan Council has donated more than £22,000, while WLCT has provided more than £10,000.

WLCT Parks Manager Andrew Haworth, said: "It's always difficult to know which is the best way to develop a site and get the funds to re-invigorate the facilities. The local councillors have come up trumps, giving us guidance on difficult issues and the Brighter Borough funds.

"The ball court has proved to be very popular since we built it two years ago with £22,000 provided by the councillors. The extra Brighter Borough funds this year means we can provide floodlights for evening games and a small shelter at the edge of the pitch."

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Notes to Editors

For more information contact Parks Manager Andrew Haworth on 01942 404858.