Playtime is in full swing at new recreation area

The area, near to the Castle Lea estate, has undergone a £55,000 makeover.

Social landlord Isos began work on the site in April, following consultation with residents and Isos tenants.

Of the 36 properties on the Castle Lea estate, 26 are owned by Isos.

Isos localism officer Lewis Rimington said: “The site, which was a designated play area, had just been left for a number of years and nothing had been done about it.

“We held a consultation event last summer and went door-to- door asking both residents and our tenants what they wanted to see on the site.

“What we have put in place is a traditional play area using modern equipment.

“It’s been a case of trying to get the balance of equipment right, because we appreciate there are children of all ages living on the estate, so we’ve tried to cater for that.”

The new park features a suspended bridge walkway, climbing wall with traversing rope net and a football goal.

There is also a toddler play tower with slide and scramble net alongside the more traditional sets of swings and see-saws.

The new equipment has been laid around a safety surface of bonded rubber.

Mr Rimington said: “Residents are delighted with the work.

“They’ve been very complimentary and grateful that, at last, Isos has been able to provide a proper play area for local children after so many years.

“Work progressed relatively smoothly and we would particularly like to thank local company Bespoke Concrete, whose Tynedale works site is near the play area.

“They were very understanding during the construction period and acted as a good neighbour during that time.”

The work is the latest in a series of playground upgrades carried out by Isos in Tynedale.

Play areas at Wylam and Newbrough have also been recently revamped

The project was also supported by Prudhoe Town Council and, in particular, by councillor for the Castle and Eltringham ward, Coun. George McCreedy.

kathleen.moore@hexham-courant.co.uk