THE future of a controversial Shore playground will be decided on Tuesday.

Plans to axe the play area were put forward last year following complaints from residents because it was attracting unruly youths who were drinking and taking drugs there.

But following a backlash the plans were shelved to allow youth workers and the police the chance to sort the problems out.

Now the Pennines Township committee will vote on the playground’s future at its meeting on Tuesday.

A report put before the committee recommends the playground is retained.

Its conclusions are partly based on a survey of residents living nearby.

Of the 233 homes which responded, 201 voted in favour of keeping the play area, with just 21 calling for it to be axed.

Since the initial calls were made police have stepped up patrols in the area and just three complaints about trouble in the park have been received.

Minor

It is also hoped the new skate park at Hare Hill Park will also give youngsters in the area something constructive to do.

In the report, community safety officer Peter Egan writes: "Removing the play area at Aberley Fold would be an over-reaction to what has been a minor problem for some residents.

"I think the matter has been properly addressed and will continue to be so if residents think there is still a problem.

"The cost of removing the equipment would, in my opinion, be completely disproportionate to the perceived problems."

Meanwhile the Pennines Township will also discuss plans to move Littleborough Library to a proposed joint services centre near the police station in Featherstall Road and will vote on granting conservation status to Town Head in Littleborough.

The Pennines Township meets at Butterworth Hall, New Street, Milnrow, at 6.15pm on Tuesday.