Rundown playgrounds will be spruced up with £1m

A £1m revamp of four playgrounds in a seaside city is on track, the local council has said.

Southend-on-Sea City Council said it was in the final stages of choosing a contractor and that work would start later this year.

Parents have pointed out that the Southchurch Park play area, which will benefit from the cash, has some equipment chained shut and several holes in the ground.

Lydia Hyde, the Labour cabinet member for climate, environment and waste, said the project would help "ensure that every child has the opportunity to play".

"These planned improvements will enhance the safety and accessibility of the play areas, creating welcoming and inclusive spaces for children of all ages and abilities," she said.

Southchurch Park, Bournes Green Park, Oakwood Park and Friars Park are all earmarked for refurbishments.

Hyde pointed out that a playground for children with additional needs was also being built at East Beach.

Southchurch Park is home to a lake, sports pitches, cafe and its playground.

Grandmother Sam Hoggar said she had been visiting there for close to five decades, but described its current state as "neglected" and "dangerous".

The 55-year-old says she brought her son to the park, and now brings her grandchildren.

"It's just such a shame - it used to be such a hive of activity, and it's somewhere where people can bring their children for free.

"But the way the equipment is at the moment, it's just not in a good state for the children.

"I just feel like the community deserves better."

Grandmother Linda Nolan, 61, said of Southchurch Park: "It has got worse over the years... little bit shabby, little bit tired.

Craig Covell, 39, was watching his child clamber up a slide that was closed at the top.

"It's definitely not what it used to be when I was growing up round here," he said.

Caleb Cowie, 35, added: "You could easily sprain your ankle if you run and you never saw it."

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