Children in Clacton have had their first chance to try out a new £50,000 play area - which they helped to design themselves!

Members of Coppins Green Primary School Council were asked to pick their favourite from a number of different designs put forward by Tendring District Council (TDC) earlier this year.

The pupils - aged between five and 11 - were asked to consider facilities for children of different ages, those with disabilities, and those they would enjoy themselves.

The children made a unanimous decision and work on the project started on the land soon afterwards.

Contractors have now finished work on the site at Knox Road Recreation and handed over the keys to the area to TDC.

Youngsters had their first taste of the new equipment when it was open for use at the weekend.

Stephen Mayzes, Portfolio Holder for Leisure at TDC, said: "This is a terrific example of direct community involvement in important projects.

"This kind of approach will help children feel part of, and understand, what the Council can do for them. They will enjoy and respect their facility which they had a hand in creating!"

The Knox Road facility is one of a number of projects being undertaken by the Council to improve play facilities for children across the Tendring District.

12/5/09

Related Link: Parks and Play Areas