Playbuilder project put on hold

Planned improvements to 11 parks and play areas across the borough have been put on hold as the result of a Government spending review.
North East Lincolnshire Council, along with other local authorities throughout the country, has been told that with immediate effect, spending under the Playbuilder scheme will cease until further notice.
The scheme, aimed at providing more up-to-date and challenging play areas throughout the country, has been funded locally by a £1.1 million Government grant, so far allowing the council to carry out work on improving 11 parks and play areas.
Consultation and design work has also been carried out regarding work planned for a further 11 parks, but construction work has not yet begun.
Councillor Tony McCabe, portfolio holder for children’s services, said: "The council has worked closely with children, young people, residents and play equipment suppliers to improve parks and play areas in our area and it is disappointing that our future plans have now been put on hold.
“No further work can continue at this point until we receive more information from the Government regarding the funding.
“I would like to reassure residents that we are committed to providing high quality play areas for children and young people and will be exploring other options that may be available to us."
Councillor Leanor Pidgen, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and tourism, said: “The council has already carried out work on 11 local play areas using funding from this scheme. The development of each park has been tailored to the needs of the young people in that area and each one has been very warmly received and well used.
“Investment in young people and local resources, such as play parks, is very important to communities and I hope that funding can go ahead for the remaining sites in the near future.”
A Government decision on any revisions to the scheme is expected by the end of August.