AROUND �90,000 will be spent on additional lighting and CCTV in March’s West End Park.

The announcement from Fenland District Council ends a long-running battle by councillors. The issue was also raised more recently at a public meeting by nearby residents when the park was being extended and a skate bowl built.

A delighted Councillor Jan French, one of those involved in the campaign, said the money will come from next year’s capital programme.

She said: “As far back as 2003 myself, Councillor Kit Owen and the late Peter Skoulding started asking for money for lighting. We wanted the lighting to go up to Marylebone Bridge.

“We have been pushing for this and it was highlighted at a public meeting when the new skate bowl went in. People said they would like additional lighting and CCTV.

“However, having spent in excess of �71,000 on the extension to the park, tree planting, paths and the skate bowl, there wasn’t any money left out of the Section 106 money”.

More recently Councillors French and Owen have been joined by Councillor Steve Count in their bid to secure the money.

Cllr French said: “At the end of the day we want the public to use our beautiful park and to get as much use out of it as possible. Yes, it is a lot of money but I do believe it is a safety issue.”

Work will also be carried out improving the City Road entrance to the park making the area more accessible when community events are held there. That money will come from the council’s normal budget.