Villagers have won their fight for a controversial skateboard park for youngsters after four years of campaigning.

Mid Sussex District Council planning committee has agreed to the proposal for the park in Copthorne, near East Grinstead.

It is hoped it will give bored youngsters something to do and reduce vandalism and crime in the area.

However, the scheme has divided the village, as some fear it will create noise and nuisance and attract teenagers smoking, drinking and littering in the area.

The council received 30 letters objecting to the tarmac park, which will be built beside a children's playground in Copthorne recreation ground.

Andrew Mitchell, a managing director who lives at nearby Rockies Close, said he would consider appealing against the decision.

He said: "There's a big problem with vandalism in the village but I don't think a skatepark is what the children are asking for.

"My boys are nine, seven and five and it's not something they're interested in.

"I'm worried the park will disrupt mothers who use the playground next door to the site. It's a fantastic play area for children under six and is well used and quiet and peaceful.

"It's already been smashed up twice by older kids and one of the hobby horses is filled with cement as a result.

"How long will it be before the rest is vandalised if the youths are right next door? It will severely disrupt the area."

However, councillors at the meeting praised the scheme, which has the backing of local police.

Councillor Christine Field said: "The more isolated the park is the more it will attract anti-social behaviour. Having it in an open area will make the youngsters more responsible."

Councillor Alan Lord said: "The police have pledged money for the idea and I'm convinced it will help reduce vandalism."

The idea for a skate park first arose four years ago following a spate of vandalism by a gang of youths in Crawley Down.

Villager Peter Chatfield, who ran Copthorne village youth club for 20 years, said: "I fully support this scheme. The village needs properly constructed and controlled facilities for young people. I have 250 signatures on a petition from children and their parents backing this park.

"It will help the situation of anti-social behaviour, not make it worse."