PLANNING is already starting for the second year of a scheme to boost deprived areas of Bolton.

Residents, community and business leaders and representatives of Bolton council are meeting to discuss the needs of the area and map out schemes which can build on work started using Government Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) cash.

Breightmet, Burnden, Darcy Lever, Hall i'th' Wood, The Haulgh and Tonge are all eligible for the funding.

More than £17,000 has already been awarded to community groups to help them set up projects.

Other initiatives in the SRB6 area include sports schemes at Tonge Park, Burnden Sports Complex and the Castle Hill Centre in Tonge Moor.

Extra security measures have been installed in the homes of elderly residents to reduce the fear of crime.

Cllr Frank White, chairman of the Interim SRB6 Partnership, said: "There's a lot of good work going on behind the scenes to ensure the success of the initiative. Several projects are already beginning to make a difference."

Volunteers to become involved in fresh schemes are still being sought and are asked to contact the council on Bolton 331235.