THE first phase of a project to refurbish five children's play areas in Darlington has been completed.

The three play areas - in the villages of Heighington, Hurworth and Sadberge - have been revamped at a cost of £15,000 each by Darlington Borough Council.

New play equipment has also been installed.

Work is to start soon on the refurbishment of play areas at Eastmount Road and at the picnic site at Broken Scar.

Work at Eastmount Road will include erection of safety fencing, the upgrading of the swings and installation of new equipment.

The footpath is to be upgraded to allow wheelchair access and new seating will be put in place.

The Broken Scar play area is to be revamped and adventure trail equipment provided for youngsters.

Lee Vasey, the borough council's cabinet member for leisure services, said: "Residents tell us that children's play areas are a priority for them so we will continue to invest in the refurbishment of children's play areas across the borough.

"Our priority is to install modern equipment so that families can enjoy their leisure time in a safe environment."

The refurbishment is the most recent work in the council's ongoing programme of maintaining and improving play areas.

Earlier this year, play areas at Eastbourne Park and Alderman Crooks Park were enhanced and a new children's play area was installed at North Lodge Park.

Closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras were also installed to improve security at all three play areas.

Coun Vasey added: "It is sad that often we have to repair and replace play equipment that is damaged as a result of vandalism, but the CCTV cameras are helping us to successfully combat the vandals.