AN eyesore fence erected adjacent to a community space in Baildon is being replaced after months of campaigning.

The industrial-style spiked fence was put up by Network Rail whose land borders the space.

But now the unsightly structure is being replaced after months of pressure and persistence from determined residents with help from ward councillor Debbie Davies (Cons, Baildon).

Members of Hoyle Court and Kirklands Residents' Association convinced Bradford Council to hand over an area of green space at the top of Kirklands Avenue over two-and-a-half years ago.

The group has a 25-year lease at a peppercorn rent for the third of an acre where many events have taken place.

In March this year workmen and diggers moved in to clear the overgrown railway banking and installed the six foot high galvanised steel fence.

Members of the Association were horrified with the fence's appearance and the destruction of nearby vegetation.

Chairman Moira Orwin said at the time: "To the front of the fence is an open grassed area much used by the residents.

"The fence now destroys the image of the avenue.

"All forms of vegetation have been destroyed, leaving the fence standing stark and bare. No attempt has been made to leave sufficient space to allow the replanting of shrubbery, blackberry and raspberry plants."

Members complained that the fence was out of keeping with the area, despite appreciating that it was for safety purposes. They also said elderly residents in Kirklands Avenue who had picked blackberries from there for 60 years were dismayed the bushes had been ripped up.

This week, however, the group is rejoicing after Network Rail contractors moved back to replace the fence with something more fitting.

Cllr Davies said: "It is an expensive remedy which was avoidable if Network Rail had spoken to residents in the first place. I know safety is paramount but when I went down to have a look it was glaringly obvious that it was not suitable. I did meet with the rail company some time ago and I was pleased they were prepared to listen. They asked whether we wanted it replacing or painting and I said a different style would be better.

"This week they started removing the grey galvanised fence and have started putting a green mesh-type one in. Hopefully the shrubs and vegetation will grow back soon."

A spokesman for Network Rail said: "After working with local residents, we have agreed to replace the existing steel fence with green fencing. We aim to complete this work by October 21. The steel fence will be installed at a more suitable location."