Works will soon be starting on upgrading Philadelphia Gardens – with new play equipment and a series of measures to make it safer for all.

The upgrades follow on from the work recently seen on Ponderosa, which included improved play equipment and the re-surfacing of paths.

The new play equipment for Philadelphia Gardens includes a five item trim-trail and a small trampoline. Both of which are popular among young park users, and the preferred choices of children from St Marys C of E school, who were directly asked what they would like to see at the park.

It is hoped the new changes will also see an increase in the use of the multi-use-games-area (MUGA), and the old slide will be removed following health and safety concerns raised.

Local Labour Councillors Ben Curran and Neale Gibson released this statement following the news:

“We’re delighted that the council will soon be undertaking these changes.

“It should be noted that the skate park was due to be removed as part of original plans but following consultation it became clear that this was against local wishes – and we have been working with residents to get the council to draw-up different plans.

“We’re pleased to see residents getting the changes they’ve been asking for, and that the project is getting off the ground.

“Our parks are a priority for the council under Labour’s leadership and it’s great to see the recent investment into Ponderosa, Bole Hill and Philadelphia Gardens”