A BEWDLEY councillor is campaigning for a play area in the town to be given a facelift to help keep children off the streets.

Paul Gittins, of Bewdley Town Council, and his wife Carol, a former member, have started a petition and already collected 300 signatures in favour of a multi-activity pitch at Bark Hill.

It follows Wyre Forest District Council's cabinet approving £180,000 of funding for four new play areas in the district, designed for a variety of sporting activities.

There will be two in Kidderminster, one in Stourport and another in Bewdley, which Councillor Gittins believes should be developed on the Bark Hill site, owned by Wyre Forest Community Housing.

At present, there is a playground with slides and swings for younger children, picnic benches and a playing field.

Mr Gittins, who is urging the district council to choose the site, said: "The play area on Bark Hill is in a splendid position but, unfortunately, under-used. Children are playing in the street only yards from the play area and I have received many complaints and concerns regarding their safety.

"We hope that a multi-activity play area in which the children can play basketball and football in safety will encourage them to stop playing in the streets."

Young people's suggestions for the area include ramps for skateboards and bikes, a football pitch and an aerial slide, he added.

Mr Gittins continued: "It may be that the district council will decide this is the best place for it but we want to make sure, which is why we started the petition."

Anyone wishing to sign it can contact Mr Gittins on 01299 404113.

Councillor Nathan Desmond, Wyre Forest District Council cabinet member for community and leisure facilities, said he was not aware of the petition but would welcome any views on the best location for the play area before making the decision later next month.

He added: "We recognise that there are less activities designed specifically for teenagers and we are committed to tackling that problem. I am consulting with key partners to decide the location of all four of the play areas and look at where they will have the most use and benefits.

"I continue to welcome as many views as possible and I will be taking into account this petition. I have been contacted by both district councillors and town councillors expressing an interest in other sites in Bewdley."