WORK will get underway tomorrow (Monday, October 27) to revamp a play park on the outskirts of Durham City.

The groundbreaking ceremony is being held at Bearpark play area, near Bearpark Primary School, on Monday at 10.30am.

The project has secured more than £150,000 of funding which will see the village gain environmental and recreational facilities, including a play area, a wheeled sports facility, a kickabout area and an outdoor gym.

The contractors will be transforming part of the primary school playing field into a new recreational facility for the whole community to enjoy.

Oliver Graham, programme manager for Groundwork North-East, which is carrying out the work, said: “The project has been designed to provide something for all ages and will bring much needed facilities for the whole community.

“The park, which will become a valuable local leisure resource, is the focus of a long running project aiming to benefit of everyone.”

Other work will include improving access to the existing footpath network to ensure the park is accessible to as many people as possible.

The area’s representatives on Durham County Council, Coun Rev Crooks and Mark Wilkes, who have supported the project at various consultation events and design sessions, will cut the first sod at the official ceremony to get it underway.

Coun Wilkes said he was looking forward to seeing the completion of the work.

He said: “This is a fantastic boost for Bearpark. After years of working towards improving play provision in the village the community I am really happy that young people will get the facilities we promised.

"This is a testament to our hard work and perseverance and I look forward to seeing the completed facilities."

The project has been developed by numerous partners including the mid Durham AAP, Durham AAP, Groundwork North East, Durham County Council, Bear Park Parish Council and Bear Park Residents Group.

The scheme has received funding from the council and has also received grants from the Big Lottery Fund.

For more information about the project contact Mr Graham on 0771-779-0683 or email oliver.graham@groundwork.org.uk Ends