11 play areas to close as council puts 'quality over quantity'

AN overhaul of Stockton's parks - which will phase out 11 play areas in the next decade - has been agreed by council leaders.

- By GARETH LIGHTFOOT

Stockton Council will own 32 play areas and gradually close 11, so it will run fewer parks under a new outdoor play strategy which is described as putting "quality over quantity".

It says it cannot afford to refurbish or upgrade all its play areas, so it will not replace equipment in the "phased decommissioning and repurposing" of the 11 earmarked parks, which could take as long as a decade. Neil Mitchell, the council's head of environment, leisure and green infrastructure, said: "Officers have set out their recommendations for the future of the council-owned play areas.

"If approved, it will result in a decreased play estate, but one that is sustainable, whilst ensuring a fair distribution and the very highest of standards expected by residents." The cabinet agreed to spend another £150,000 a year on the parks: "This would enable us to retain 23 council-owned play areas. They would be prioritised for retention, ensuring the highest maintenance standards and good play value.

"A further nine play areas will also be retained subject to availability of resources, whilst 11 sites will be subject to phased decommissioning and repurposing."