The Stoke-on-Trent play spot is now open! Vandalism repairs and new equipment upgrades cost £150,000.
Kids can now enjoy the updated playground. The council reopened the gates this month. They said equipment condition was the main problem. Some vandalism did occur before the closure.
A zip line will open later this year. The grass needs to grow back fully first. New equipment should last longer than before and will also need less maintenance.
Families visited during half-term and liked it. They said the money was well spent on the play area. The park first opened back in 2011.
Local officials warn vandals they will face consequences.
Councilor Khan said the play area received £150,000. They used the money to replace old equipment and damaged safety surfaces were replaced, too.
The old equipment was unsafe and falling apart, so they replaced pieces while keeping the original design. The newer materials will last longer and will not need as much upkeep.
Two play zones are now open for children. The zip line will open once the grass is ready. More visitors might deter future vandalism incidents.
Councilor Din welcomed the park’s reopening. He hopes people respect the new equipment because repairs are costly if vandals damage things.
CCTV cameras will monitor the play area. They are near the park’s middle gates and if vandalism happens, they will find those responsible.
Bethany Carter said the upgrades were worth the cost. Her kids love playing in the new park and she hopes people will avoid ruining the park.
Simon Wellington said the kids enjoy the play area, although he thought it would be less crowded. It’s nice for parents to chat and play together and he likes that different ages play well together.