A local authority parks boss has promised the refurbishment of a dilapidated playground in a township will be complete this summer.

Hyndburn Council's environment portfolio holder Cllr Steven Smithson has pledged the renovated children's play area at Masefield Close in Great Harwood will be open in August.

His promise follows Overton ward's Cllr Colin McKenzie tabling a question at Thursday's full meeting of Hyndburn Council on why the scheme, which serves the large residential estates of Shakespeare Avenue and Wordsworth Drive, had stalled.

Cllr Smithson said the project, developed after extensive community consultation, aims to provide a much-needed update to the local play facilities, offering a range of inclusive and modern play equipment for children of all abilities.

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The play area will include 12 new pieces of play equipment, catering to a wide age range and abilities.

They include an inclusive roundabout, a trampoline, a cableway, extra swings, three different slides and improved access.

The existing play area at Masefield Close has provided limited play opportunities with outdated equipment, much of which has been removed including the swings in 2021.

The design of a new play area has been influenced by feedback from two nearby schools, St. Wulstan's Roman Catholic Primary School and Great Harwood Primary School.

Local children were given the opportunity to select their preferred play equipment, ensuring the final design meets the expectations and needs of its young users.

An online survey further supported the design process, receiving 136 responses that helped shape the project's direction.

Cllr Smithson, also deputy leader of Hyndburn Council's ruling Conservative group, said "The introduction of the new play area at Masefield Close represents a significant investment in the well-being of Great Harwood's youngest residents and their families.

"By responding to the community's feedback, the council and its partners are set to deliver a facility that will enhance the quality of play in the area for years to come.

"The project highlights the council's commitment to creating vibrant, inclusive, and accessible outdoor spaces for all of our community."

Labour's Cllr Colin McKenzie said: "Great Harwood's Labour councillors have long been calling for this refurbishment, and for renewed investment in Great Harwood.

"We welcome this development and are pleased that Great Harwood will now have a fully accessible children's playground."