Youngsters from Broughton in Wrexham have been given a basketball area, skatepark and sheltered seating for them to use.

Claire and Yasmin have welcomed the scheme

The �34,000 development was organised after local children told councillors there was nothing for them to do in the area.

Fourteen-year-old Kenny Davies from Brynteg said the new facilities have improved the village: "The skatepark is great, I really like it.

"Before I just used to play football and hang about on the field but this is better than being on the streets."

Twelve year old Claire Kearns also welcomed the facility: "This is just brilliant, I used to just sit at home before but now I'm coming out a lot."

A great deal of concern had previously been felt amongst local residents, regarding the lack of facilities and opportunities for young people

Reverend James Aylward

The play scheme is situated on Solway Banks in Gwenfro.

The ward is ranked 81st most deprived in Wales and 51st in terms of child poverty out of 865 wards across the country.

The project has taken members of the Broughton Partnership Board two years to develop.

The board's chairman Reverend James Aylward said the play area is a great way forward.

Teenagers just hung around before

"A great deal of concern had previously been felt amongst local residents, regarding the lack of facilities and opportunities for young people."

Wrexham council leader Sh�n Wilkinson added: "Having been involved in the consultation process, the youngsters have gained a strong sense of ownership over the new play area."

The scheme has been paid for by the Welsh Assembly and further investment will be made locally including a new learning centre and creche facilities.