Play parks set to receive £800,000 revamp

North East Lincolnshire Council’s play parks are set to receive an £800,000 revamp to improve equipment.

The council aims to improve the quality of its play parks to make sure children of all abilities can enjoy good quality playgrounds across the borough.

A programme of investment in the play parks was approved at full council on 18 February to support the health and wellbeing of residents and to recognise the value placed in the area’s parks and open spaces.

Members will discuss a report at Cabinet on Wednesday 16 June in a bid to progress with the programme to release the funds to commence the procurement of the new play equipment, including installation and repairs and maintenance.

The replacement of equipment is estimated to cost £800,000 over the next three years.

Councillor Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and transport, said: “It’s vital we improve our play parks so children can stay safe and active in the great outdoors, improving their health and wellbeing in the process.

“Over time, the equipment in our play parks has gradually deteriorated and some items have been removed due to age, vandalism or excessive maintenance costs.

“We want children of all ages and abilities to be able to access good quality, safe play areas and that is why we are investing £800,000 into revamping them. To do nothing would mean the play parks will continue to deteriorate and go into gradual decline.

“We want to improve the standards of our play parks and make them a more desirable place to visit, so that they can offer a wider social benefit to the local community.”

If Cabinet members decide to release the funds, the council will go out to tender, which will allow a contract to be awarded for works to progress.

Ward and parish councillors will have the opportunity to consider and influence final plans and designs for play parks in their areas.