ENVIRONMENTAL improvements to a Stockton housing estate are due to begin soon.

An area known as Pyramid Park, part of the Hardwick Housing Estate, is due for a facelift which will include the removal of dangerous play equipment, the demolition of walls around a disused hard surface, and extensive drainage of a field, which is subject to flooding for most of the winter months.

Sian Johnson, co-ordinator for Hardwick Community Partnership, said that once the improvements had been completed, plans may be implemented to install a junior-size grassed football pitch, a multi-use Astroturf area, a BMX track, shelters and improved play equipment.

She said: "The key to getting this project off the ground is residents getting involved.

"Many have taken part in fact-finding trips and made suggestions on the type of facilities needed. Now we need residents to take a more active part in planning the detail of the area."

The scheme also proposes to continue the work of the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust in making Hardwick Dene, an area of special natural interest next to the estate, more accessible to residents.

It is hoped that work will begin in the next few weeks, with completion due for the end of March.

Open days for residents to find out more about the scheme have been arranged during half-term week at Hardwick Community Centre, Whessoe Road, on Monday from 10am to 2pm, and at Hardwick in Partnership, High Newham Road, Hardwick, on Wednesday, from 3pm to 6pm. There will also be an open day at Salter's Lane Community Centre, on Thursday, from noon to 3pm.