New modernised play area ready for children in Banbury neighbourhood

Pupils at St Leonard’s Primary School have given the thumbs up to their new neighbourhood play area.

Work costing more than £130,000 has turned an existing but out-dated playground in Howard Road into a state-of-the-art facility that won the approval of the young thrill-seekers at its official reopening yesterday (Thursday March 19).

A six-month refurbishment included new play equipment, a safe soft surface and improved fencing.

The amenity is now disabled-friendly and work has been done to reduce the risk of flooding.

The old playground was closed in September to enable the modernisation to be carried out during the winter.

The schoolchildren agreed it was: “great, terrific, fantastic, super.”

Teacher Caroline Debus said: “The children have really been looking forward to today. They have watched the play area being built and have been so excited at the prospect of trying the new equipment.”

The play area is owned and maintained by Banbury Town Council.

Mayor John Colegrave said: “Howard Road play area is now a superb facility and has the most up-to-date equipment and a new safer surface.

“The improvements mean it can be used by a wider range of youngsters and it was good to see the St Leonard’s pupils enjoying themselves.”

Cllr Colegrave added: “This refurbishment is part of the council’s rolling programme of improvements to parks and play areas across the town.

“In the coming year, multi-use games areas at Stanbridge and Hill View plus the play area at Ferriston will be up-dated.”