WORK has started on removing equipment from play areas in Newton Aycliffe before they are demolished.

A report has highlighted 21 play areas that have inappropriate surfaces. Some also have problems with fencing.

Sedgefield Borough Council commissioned the National Playing Fields Association to undertake an independent survey of play areas in the borough several months ago.

The association was asked to identify issues including safety, play value, fencing and inspection regimes.

It was estimated that providing the necessary safety surfacing and fencing for the 21 play areas would cost more than £100,000.

Phil Ball, Sedgefield council's director of leisure services, said: "When considering the play value of each of these individual areas, quite clearly this level of investment is inappropriate.

"Leisure services is working very closely with Great Aycliffe Town Council regarding other fixed play areas in the town, with a view to future improvements."

Council leader Councillor Bob Fleming said new health and safety regulations mean the play areas must be demolished. But he said there would be a meeting early next year to discuss the idea of installing larger play areas to replace those that will be lost.

He said: "These play areas were a good idea at the time, but times have changed. What we will be doing is looking at some new play areas."