A COMMUNITY garden, a youth shelter and a toddlers play area were among the proposed improvements to a housing estate put on show. Groundwork Hertfordshire held a consultation event to get residents views on its plans for the Grange estate, Letchworth G

A COMMUNITY garden, a youth shelter and a toddlers' play area were among the proposed improvements to a housing estate put on show.

Groundwork Hertfordshire held a consultation event to get residents' views on its plans for the Grange estate, Letchworth GC.

The charity has a share of a £1.5m jackpot from the People's Millions lottery to spend on the estate, and also has funding from North Hertfordshire District Council and North Herts Homes.

Its other proposals include a football and basketball area for youngsters, which would include a youth shelter, plus improved lighting, additional tree planting and seating and some provision for car parking.

It would also like to close Pelican Way between the community centre and the sheltered housing accommodation to help reduce through traffic, improve safety for young people and cyclists and reduce the nuisance of scooters and motorbikes.

The charity set up a marquee on the estate, which displayed details of the proposals.

It also laid on entertainment including face painting, drumming workshops and go-karting.

A spokesman said there was a good turnout for the event.

He added: "The majority of residents were very positive about the project and feel the proposed transformation will be a great improvement to the estate.

"Residents were encouraged to complete short questionnaires on the proposals which included a section for freestyle comments.

"The comments will be collated and analysed and reported back to the steering group.

"Planning permission will be sought in September and the project implemented by summer 2007.

"The proposals have been developed from two questionnaires and meetings with the steering group which includes residents and local stakeholders.