A RESIDENTS' association is appealing for a play area near their homes to be made into a nature reserve.

Westbrook Residents' Association in Darlington is hoping part of Brinkburn Dene can be designated as a restricted area to protect wildlife that lives there.

Among wildlife seen in the small play area near Westbrook Villas and Westbrook Terrace are bank voles, bats, toads, squirrels and owls.

A spokesman for the residents' association said: "Because of the lack of wildlife cover through Darlington along the Skerne this mini nature reserve would form a welcome safe haven and refreshment station for wildlife passing through. It is already an important wildlife corridor."

The residents claim the play area is unpopular with young people and say it should be put to better use.

The spokesman said: "The existing bike track and play area are very little used because of drug dealers in the area and with the relative isolation of the dene, mothers are loathe to let their children play there.

"Because of the high level of crime and vandalism in the Northgate and Station Road area, the reserve must be protected by fencing."

Countryside officers from Darlington Borough Council, who have already been on a site visit, were meeting residents on Tuesday.