Residents are being asked how they think 53,580 allocated for improving their community should be spent, writes Emma Henry.

The money has been given to Oxford City Council for use on community facilities in Blackbird Leys, Oxford, as part of a planning agreement over the construction of a nursing home off Grenoble Road.

Ideas already suggested include the refurbishment and development of Blackbird Leys Community Centre, improving the Jubilee '77 Community Centre and upgrading recreation facilities such as sports or play areas. Residents are asked to comment on these ideas, or make new suggestions to the council, to be received by Friday, September 22.

Council community development manager Fergus Lapage said: "This is a significant amount of money, which must be spent on a project which will benefit the people of Blackbird Leys.

"To ensure this money is put to the best possible use we need to find out how local people would like to see their community enhanced." Residents can contact head of leisure John Bolton by writing to: 109-113 St Aldate's, Oxford, OX1 1DS; by telephoning 01865 252826; or by sending an e-mail to jbolton@oxford.gov.uk