THE creation of a number of parks and play areas is going ahead after over £100,000 in funding was awarded.

Four parks and play areas in County Durham will be receiving cash including Newton Hall Play Area, Jubilee Park Sensory Garden, Sherburn Road Nature Area and Dawdon Park.

The moneys has come from the CDENT Premier Award donations under the government's Landfill Communities Fund.

The money will go towards the creation of attractive, green, open spaces across the County that can be enjoyed by all the community.

CDENT chairman John Wearmouth said: "We are really pleased to be able to play our part in ensuring these worthwhile projects go ahead. "I look forward to seeing the projects develop and being enjoyed by the local community."

All four projects aim to offer opportunities for local people and children to enjoy outdoor play and exercise and were selected for their positive environmental credentials.

Dawdon Park in Seaham was the biggest recipient, receiving £50,000 and the money will go towards improving the Hazel Dene area of the park with woodland management to foster biodiversity and improved access for people to enjoy the dene.

£25,000 was awarded to the Sherburn Road Nature Area as part of a much bigger project to rejuvenate an area of land close to Durham City Centre by providing a large, attractive open space for individuals and community groups. The contribution will meet the cost of tree and shrub planting, seating and interpretation panels.

A further £10,000 was awarded to assist in the creation of a sensory garden at Jubilee Park in Spennymoor to awaken the senses with aromatic and colourful plants.

Another project which has been given the go ahead is the Newton Hall play area in Durham which received £20,000 to help residents and the council implement a play area for all ages to promote healthy life styles.