A ‘WHIMSICAL’ children’s play area re-opened in Wellington on Monday, three months later than planned after a £100,000 refurbishment.

The all-new Tonedale play zone, which can be found between Richards Close and Milverton Road, should have been completed last October.

But town council deputy clerk Alice Kendall said wet and cold weather had delayed the contractors, while some equipment was damaged in transit and had to be returned.

The council used money from housing developers to rip out and replace old play equipment which had remained largely unchanged for 40 years and had become run-down.

Wellington Town Council Tonedale play area
A fenced toddler area has been included in Tonedale's new-look play park, in Wellington. (Wellington Town Council)

Ms Kendall said some minor ground works still needed to be finished but the play park itself was now open for use.

She said: “The new equipment has a whimsical design and includes an activity trail, a wheelchair-accessible roundabout, and a brand-new toddler area which includes a slide, swings, a springer, and interactive play panels.

“The play area has equipment suitable for children of all ages and the council looks forward to seeing families enjoying the area.

“Alongside the new equipment, a path has been installed at the lower entrance of the site to allow for better accessibility and safety for all.

“The council hope that the new equipment will bring joy to local children for many years to come.”

Ms Kendall said there was now a more inclusive and modern feel to the play area.She said the old equipment was recycled at the beginning of the refurbishment project.

Wellington Town Council Tonedale play area
Some of the new equipment in the refurbished Tonedale play area, Wellington. (Wellington Town Council)

Town council environment and open spaces committee chairman Cllr Mike McGuffie said the scheme also included toddler area which was fenced to make it secure for younger children.

Cllr McGuffie said: “I am really delighted with the new play area and hope it will provide fun for children of all abilities and ages for many years to come.”

The play park’s design was influenced by local residents’ views after the council carried out a neighbourhood consultation last year.

A multi-use games area on the site has been kept as it was.

The cost of the refurbishment came from Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Section 106 monies which are paid to the council by housing developers to help meet demand the increased demand on local facilities brought by an influx of new residents.