Restoration of arson-hit play area is under way
WORK has begun on restoring a play area following an act of arson earlier this year.
A play house and the surrounding safety surface in the Argents Mead castle play area was targeted by vandals earlier this year.
Now work has begun in installing two new pieces of play equipment in the popular play area. The £10,400 cost of the new play equipment, replacement safety flooring and installation is being paid by the council’s insurers.
The ‘pick up sticks’ climbing frame and monkey bars were chosen to enhance the ‘motte and bailey’ themed playground and offer children something different to go alongside the existing timber castle structure, rockers, swings, and play houses.
It is expected works will be completed within four weeks.
Cllr Mark Nickerson, Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services at the Borough Council said: “It was such a shame this incident took place but luckily, CCTV captured the offenders which led to those responsible slides being brought to justice.
“The new equipment fits in well with the existing equipment, which we understand is more popular with the young children using the park, so there are some pluses.
“Let’s just hope we have no more idiots ruining such a great play area on this beautiful Green Flag park.”