Playtime goes with more than a swing

YOUNGSTERS have been let loose on revamped play areas across the borough thanks to a £1.2million programme.

The Playbuilder scheme will fund improvements to 22 of Oldham’s parks in a bid to give children the opportunity to make the most of their outdoor environment.

Celebration events will be held at the revamped parks where play workers will be on hand to encourage imaginative activities.

In total, 22 sites will be refurbished as part of the two-year programme which was funded by a Government grant.

Residents have been involved in the planning of their local play area through a number of consultation events over the past few years and the feedback was used to develop the plans.

The layout of each play site takes into account the specific needs in each area, the existing landscape of the park and use of natural elements such as boulders and logs. The needs of disabled children have also been examined.

Councillor Mark Alcock, Cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, said: “As a council, one of the most common things we get asked to do is to provide more facilities for our youngsters to enjoy.

“The first phase of the Playbuilder programme has already helped us transform 11 of the borough’s play sites while giving youngsters of all ages the opportunity to explore some of the best play facilities possible.

“This is just the start, because when the remaining 11 play areas are finished, Oldham will have some of the best play sites around.”