Park upgrade hailed a swinging success

A year ago it was labelled an eyesore, but now in a dramatic turnaround Solitude play park has been described as '˜absolutely fantastic' and the council praised for the refurbishment effort.
A view of the new Play Park in Solitude ©Edward Byrne Photography INBL1628-208EBA view of the new Play Park in Solitude ©Edward Byrne Photography INBL1628-208EB
A view of the new Play Park in Solitude ©Edward Byrne Photography INBL1628-208EB

Last September concerned parents made a plea to the council to take action and repair the play park which they said had fallen into a state of disarray.

At that stage Niall Parfitt had described it as an eyesore and extremely dangerous for children.

But now on social media, Niall has praised the council.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He said: “I posted a while ago about the state of the play area at Solitude Park. It was in a terrible state and seemed to be constantly vandalised and was very dangerous.

“I brought my children to the new park today and I have to say it is absolutely fantastic. You could spend hours there and even better it was packed with people.

“Well done to the council and to all concerned. Credit where it’s due.”

The refurbished play park opened it’s gates on July 7, at a cost of £300,000. It is just one of a number of developments Solitude Park has undergone over recent years.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A council spokesperson said: “Along with traditional equipment including swings, see-saws, slides and roundabouts, exciting new additions at the park include a ground level trampoline, basket swings, rope rotator, cable way, rope snake team swing and the park’s crowning glory, a colossal double tower net climber.

“Toddlers and younger children have their own section complete with play house, play panel, mini basket swing, rope pyramid and play train.

“The equipment is nestled in a beautifully landscaped setting complete with seating so parents and careers can have a well earn rest while the children can have fun in safe and secure surroundings.”

The next exciting phase of the project is the development of a new outdoor skate park plus upgrades to the amenity lighting and CCTV system. It is anticipated work on this phase will commence in 2017.

Related topics: