The children's play area in Boydfield Gardens in Prestwick now has new equipment and a safe play surface, and children are having great fun playing on it.

Prior to the upgrading the equipment in the play area was old, had been damaged by acts of vandalism, and was in need of upgrading.

The improvements were funded with £9,000 from South Ayrshire Council's Community Enhancement Budget. All Elected Members can apply for funding from the budget for projects that, once completed, will be of benefit to local communities.

Convener of South Ayrshire Council's Economic and Tourism Development Committee, and local member for Prestwick St Ninians Councillor Margaret Toner, who applied for the funding said: "The play area at Boydfield Gardens has been transformed and local children, and those visiting the area are benefiting from the new equipment.

"It is important that all children can play happily in a safe environment, get fresh air and exercise, learn through play, and socialise with other children. The new equipment that has been installed has been specially selected so that it is compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act, so that all children can use it.

"Two new pieces of equipment have been installed, a bubble car springer and a multi-functional piece of apparatus that children can climb and slide on. The original static climbing unit and the swings have been retained, and a new safety surface has been laid that meets safety standards for play area surfaces.

Enjoying playing at the refurbished play area in Boydfield Gardens Prestwick are Emma, Zahra and Ali who are accompanied by Councillor Margaret Toner.

January 2006