Residents hit out at removal of Wolverhampton play area

People who live close to Northwoood Park, Bushbury, have spoken out after workmen were seen removing a play park.

Already, the majority of the children's play equipment within the park has been dismantled – part of a wider policy by Wolverhampton City Council to remove 'natural' play areas in the city.

According to residents living near Northwood Park, officials have been moving the rocks, dismantling the rope climbing frame and clearing the sandpit.

Commenting on Facebook, resident Angela Archer said: "Hope they don't get rid of the slide and sand my grandson will be very upset."

Resident Ann Banks added: "My granddaughters loved to play on them nowhere for them to play now."

Resident Tammi Nate said: "I take my children regularly. Love the stones, sand pit, slide and chain bridge. The stones are great as stepping stones or for me to sit on while they play."

Joanne Frays, a nearby resident, said: "I've walked through the park this morning and it really is a shame Always down to money yet think nothing of wasting it elsewhere. My daughter really enjoyed that part of the park, she will be really disappointed when I tell her."

Councillor Daniel Warren, Labour councillor for Bushbury North said: "I'm personally disappointed by the move. The decision was made earlier in the year to remove the natural play parks across the city due to the maintenance costs.

"The parks cost a small fortune to maintain unlike the other playgrounds in the area as they need to be inspected every few days to make sure the equipment is safe. This is down to the nature of the parks being made out of material like wood and soil mounds.

"I wasn't made aware that the park would be removed and it's also disappointing there was no notice to announce the removal of the park. This is all very frustrating from my point of view."

Council spokesman Tim Clark said: “Unfortunately the natural play equipment had to be removed at short notice after a number of safety issues were identified including rotting timber and trip hazards which couldn’t be repaired. Our priority has to be keeping people safe and replacing the equipment would have cost in excess of £20,000.

"We do apologise to people who were left wondering where the natural play area had gone.

"There is a traditional play area still at the park which the council is currently seeking funding to refurbish and this would be done in consultation with the local community.”