A project designed to create safer streets and a more inviting look around Stonehouse in Plymouth has been shortlisted for a national planning award.

The Adelaide Park Home Zone has made the final round of the Royal Town Planning Institute Planning awards 2008 under the Renewed Neighbourhoods category.

Plymouth City Council has almost finished transforming the streets in and around Adelaide Street and Clarence Place to enlarge the zone that initially covered Union Place, Manor Gardens and Manor Street.

The Council worked with residents to find out what they wanted from the scheme which includes replacing patchy surfacing with clean new granite, new street lights, planters and easier access for pedestrians and walkers.

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The work has lifted the look of the historic streets, which were planned in the 1830s and followed architect John Foulston's designs for the area.

The Home Zone also has a new play park which includes a set of play things designed to let children run around safely.

The playground cost £75,000 and the children helped build a mosaic in the first phase of the scheme.

Home Zones are designed to create safer streets with slower traffic and more open space.

Councillor Michael Leaves, Cabinet Member for Streetscene and Environmental Regulation said: "I am delighted that this scheme has been shortlisted for such a prestigious award.

"People of all ages who live around here had very clear ideas about what they wanted to see to improve their neighbourhood and were enthusiastic about getting involved.

"It is lovely to see the park coming together. It's more open and inviting for children to come and play since playgrounds today are not just about the play equipment but about recreation."

Phase 1 cost £900,000 and the current phase cost £1,196,000. The Council secured money from the Safer Stronger Communities Fund - administered by the Plymouth 2020 Local Strategic Partnership, the Local Transport Plan and Section 106 contributions from Millbay developments.

(CD/JM)