PLANS to repair an Oswestry astroturf area hit by drainage problems have been given the go-ahead.

Oswestry Town Council has given the green light to £3,000 of works at the facility in Cae Glas Park due to drainage problems that cause algae, which can lead to the surface being slippery.

Assistant town clerk Arren Roberts told the Amenities Committee that the costs "isn't too high" and was within budget.

Councillor Peter Cherrington stressed the importance of the proposed works at the facility, which he said was regularly used by clubs.

"I would support it getting down sooner rather than later," he said.

that the surface does not drain well due to a "build up of organic matter over the years", and that "essential works" were needed.

"This encourages the growth of algae which can make the surface extremely slippy, in addition large puddles form meaning the 'astro' cannot be used," he added.

"A recent clean by park staff has made some difference but there is a need to use a specialist company to carry out a thorough clean and re-dressing of the surface."

The surface was installed several years ago thanks to a successful partnership between the town council, Oswestry Team Tennis and Oswestry Boys and Girls Club.

Mr Roberts said that while the surface is not heavily used, it does provide a "valued facility" for both tennis and football, used by the two clubs as well as private hire.

Cllr Mike Isherwood asked whether the council was looking at something that might have a life and that would become slippery in five of six years".

Mr Roberts said the funds were for cleaning and maintenance but that his report said that the council may need to "look at it long-term" and that this might be something for the park group to look at.