FIRST STEPS TO A NEW PARK

After a lot of delay, we're pleased that the first phase of the upgrading of North Kenton Park will begin early in the New Year.

£40,000 of Play Pathfinder money will be invested in new play equipment for local children, and another £30,000 will be used to remove the mound in the area to the south of the sports centre where the new equipment will go.

Some trees in that area will be removed and bushes cut back to give a safer environment. Kenton School students will design a gateway on the south side.

The plan follows extensive consultation between council officers and councillors with the North Kenton Tenants and Residents Association, and with local people.

"The association has spent a lot of time creating a new vision for the park" said Councillor David Faulkner.

"This will be the first stage of what we hope will be a much bigger project to reshape the whole park".

Future funds will come as contributions from housing developments nearby.