Douglas Council creates five year 'play area action plan' to address issues

It wants to introduce a dedicated maintenance fund to replace old equipment

Douglas Council has created a five year 'play area action plan' to address issues in parks across the capital. 

The local authority says it is an 'investment and refurbishment' plan which will include a new renovation scheme and a new financial model for next year to ensure 'sustainable long-term maintenance'.

It adds the proposal will establish a 'dedicated' maintenance fund for play areas as well as an annual renewal fund of £7,500 per play area, to replace old equipment. 

The council confirmed it is also preparing a capital programme to fund the full replacement of play areas that have exceeded their lifespans. 

It also wants to introduce a 'play area provision' into future council-led housing developments. 

Chair of the Regeneration and Community Committee Natalie Byron-Teare said: "This plan is about ensuring that every child in Douglas has access to safe, high-quality play facilities, no matter where they live.

"Playgrounds are vital to the community and this is a long-term investment in the wellbeing of our community. As custodians of Douglas, we are very proud of both our parks and green spaces in the capital and this is reflected in the fact we recently retained green flags at nine sites, including at Noble’s Park which is home to five of the 15 play areas we manage.

"These spaces are essential to the wellbeing of our residents and visitors, offering clean, safe environments for relaxation, activity and community life.

"Our parks services team regularly inspects all play areas and play equipment and promptly carries out any necessary repairs. This plan has been developed following a detailed audit of those play facilities, assessing their condition and lifespan, as we strive to provide safe, more inclusive and better-maintained spaces for local children and families."