Providence Place in Brighton was a playground built to give children in the nearby homes a place of their own.

But drug addicts, dealers and drunks have made the spot a no-go area for youngsters, littering the ground with their filth, bottles and syringes.

It has taken four years but, thanks to the determination of residents, led by Cathy Black, it looks like the tables could be turning.

The city council and housing association are to be congratulated for getting behind the efforts of those people who are not prepared to let their lives be ruined by down and outs.

But it will take more than a well-meaning artist to solve the long-standing problems of an area which has been allowed to let slide so far.

If locals are to reclaim the spot in the long term they will need the continued support of the police, the council and everyone in the neighbourhood.

But in a city where open space is so precious and children's futures are at stake, there can be fewer causes more worth uniting for.