The area on Smithy Lane Recreation Ground will be transformed into a brand new play area for children and will boast a section for toddlers and pre-school children along with dog-proof fencing. There will also be a Youth Zone, new seating and park style fencing along the Smithy Lane frontage.

Despite initial setbacks due to the winter weather, the playground will be ready for children to enjoy by the end of March this year.

The project got the go-ahead after a long battle by protesters who descended on Smithy Lane to demand their fair share of the government's £1.1 million grant for Leeds.

A total of 22 playgrounds across the city council's area are being created and revamped as part of the investment from the Department for Children, School and Families' Playbuilder programme.

Sharna Ramsden, chairwoman of Tingley Tenants and Residents Association (TARA), said: "We've been asking for a playground for years so I'm delighted we're finally getting one.

"It's a real success for the tenants and residents association and local families are delighted. We've been asking for a playground for years so I am delighted that we are finally getting one."

Coun Lisa Mulherin, who led the fight for the new equipment and provided £10,000 from her ward-based initiative funding for the project, said: "It is fantastic to see work starting on this site. This is a really exciting project that will at last put play back at the heart of the local community.

"A safe, dedicated play area for children has been long overdue and I know many families can't wait to see the final result.

"I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard to get this scheme off the ground."

As well as Coun Mulherin's financial input into the project, £68,000 was given by the government's Playbuilder scheme along with £30,000 from the council's area committee and £20,000 from Aire Valley Homes.

Coun Jack Dunn said he was also delighted that after a great deal of effort put in by residents, councillors and officers of the council that the first stage of installing the new play area has now started.

"The subject of play provision in the Tingley area has been at the forefront of issues raised by the local community for some time and, as a ward councillor, I am grateful for the response we have received from residents in respect of the local consultation exercise held at Tingley Youth Centre which was most helpful.

"I also hope that facilities put in place for the teenage section will provide an alternative to standing on street corners.

"The play area scheme has had the support and guidance of the Tingley TARA members and this has been invaluable in bringing the idea to fruition. This could also be the start for more provision for young people in the area."