AROUND £30,000 is set to be pumped into improving leisure facilities at a Sidemoor park.

Council chiefs plans to build floodlights at the ball court in the King George playing fields.

This means that youngsters will be able to use the football and basketball facilities all year round. Councillor Athol Deakin (Lab-Sidemoor) hopes the investment will lead to a more ambitious project.

"The site has massive potential," he said. "But there has got to be a public consultation. It is an ideal spot that is already there, but it needs to be upgraded a bit more.

"It would be a major asset for Sidemoor, and the future would be bright for youth activities in the area."

Cllr Deakin also said that extra money could be generated from a "pay for light" scheme.

"People using the facilities at night time could pay for their light so that a bit of extra money could be generated," he added.

Robbie Hazelhurst, head of culture and community services at Bromsgrove District Council, said the authority was keen to gauge the views of residents before the final plans are drawn up.

"The project is still very much in its infancy. We recognise the need to consult local residents before we work out detailed plans and listen very carefully to what they want."

Mr Hazelhurst added that it would be a golden opportunity to improve the leisure activities that are available to young people in the area.

"We believe that subject to the views of local residents, if we can put up the floodlights, we will be able to increase the number of activities for young people, and improve them."