A major overhaul of play areas is being carried out by Mansfield District Council, including a £250,000 refurbishment being undertaken now at Carr Bank Park and Forest Road Park, known locally as Spider Park.

Included in the revamp at the two parks will be the latest i-play machines, which encourage exercise by testing children's speed and agility, and will be the first solar-powered games at any park in Nottinghamshire.

And there has been further investment at a number of play areas over the last three years, including new multi-use games areas at Titchfield Park and Carr Lane Park in Warsop.

While Neighbourhood Management teams have spent funds on creating new skate parks across the district.

Coun Eddie Smith, the council's portfolio holder for the environment and Mansfield play champion, told Chad: "We are investing in some top quality equipment and are particularly keen to introduce equipment which encourages some physical activity, as well as updated versions of the more traditional slides, swings and climbing frames.

"The Neighbourhood Warden mobile service is also being expanded to tackle anti-social behaviour across the district to ensure the new areas are used for their intended purpose."

But seven play areas which are poor quality or dangerous are being axed by the council, including Warsop Road in Mansfield Woodhouse, Warsop's Cottage Lane and Mansfield's Bellamy Road — although the authority hopes to replace them at a later date.



Coun Eddie Smith helps put the finishing touches to the new Spider Park, which is undergoing a £120,000 revamp.