A run-down park in Darlaston is to be given a £200,000 facelift in an attempt to spruce up and secure the site after anti-social behaviour problems.

The cash will be used to improve Kings Hill Park, by installing new fencing and main gates and by securing the car park off Old Park Road.

New trees will also be planned on green space as part of the project, which is being funded through a Section 106 cash contribution made by developers who have been given council permission to build in the area.

The park has been plagued with problems of anti-social behaviour, as well as mini-motors and quad bikes.

There have also been problems with vandalism, including an attack in May when yobs destroyed a new picnic area and snapped newly planted trees.  Grass on the former bowling green was set alight at the park, off the main Darlaston Road.

It is hoped the cash boost will help to safeguard the park.

The revamp has been drawn up by the Friends of Darlaston South Parks group and Walsall Council with work hoped to start in weeks.

Darlaston councillor Paul Bott, also chairman of the Friends group, said: “The intention is to see if we can get a secure park.

“The money is there and there is a lot of potential.  It is a premier park and with this investment we should be looking for Green Flag status.

“Residents have been asking for more security and trees.”

The fencing will aim to stop mini-motorbikes getting onto the site and to encourage more people to enjoy walking around and using the park.

A new picnic area, footpath repairs and a noticeboard welcoming visitors were installed last year as part of a £33,000 improvement package.