RESIDENTS in Barton are delighted their children will make full use of a recreation ground now it has secured funding for floodlights.

Oxford City Council has set aside up to £12k for the floodlights for the games area, situated behind Barton Neighbourhood Centre in Underhill Circus.

The lights will allow young people to use the sports facilities during the winter.

The local authority will now consult with residents before the scheme is considered in detail by the council’s planning committee.

The community is delighted with the news, which it is hoped will encourage more young people to get active.

Tariq Ahmad, whose sons Imani Morton, seven, and Zeshaan Morton, nine, use the facility said: “It’s great, especially with it getting closer to winter.

“It gives the kids a chance to run off some energy.

“The floodlights will help the area because I don’t think there is a lot for children in the winter.”

Sgt Martyn Williams, of the Thames Valley Police Barton neighbourhood team, said: “I’ve met city council officers to discuss the matter and, from a police point of view, we support any plan that will make the activities safer for people to use.

“We hope the extended hours mean clubs and residents can take advantage of the facilities.”

Sgt Williams added: “We currently don’t receive a great deal of antisocial behaviour reports from the location so I’m fairly positive that it will be used in the same manner and there shouldn’t be any issues.”

City councillor for Barton Mike Rowley said the council made the funds available after youth groups which use the Barton Neighbourhood Centre, and others such as Thrive, said floodlights would be a good idea.

He added: “It’s early days and we are yet to submit a planning application, but hopefully it will go ahead as soon as possible.

“The multi-sports area is becoming increasingly popular for organised clubs and casual use. It’s also great for youth work.

“We have to make sure no light will interfere with properties in Taggs Gate, but once residents are consulted, we will get it to the council.”