THE extremely popular Timperley Green children’s play area has been out of action since last August through vandals destroying the surface area by cutting several large holes, making it very dangerous for children to play on.

I was first informed of this in late November and since then I have been endeavouring to resolve the situation. Unfortunately, it is now not directly Trafford’s responsibility to resolve the problem. Under the new Trafford arrangements it needed to be dealt with through Trafford’s sub-contractors AMEY, which at the present time is a longer process.

However, we now have good news for the users of the play area and I can inform residents that following an inspection, funding has been found from a separate fund to re-structure the whole surface area with possibly other minor works. The refurbishment is due to take place in this financial year so it should be in operation again by April/May this year.

The new and most predominant surface is cost effective and will include 'green matting'.

It has been a shame that our youngsters have lost this facility for so long through the anti-social behaviour. We can now look forward to our playground being opened ready for the summer for the enjoyment of our children.

Councillor Ray Bowker MBE