WITH the summer holidays now in full swing, families in Prudhoe could be forgiven for wondering what has happened to their promised new play park.

Renovations to Eastwood Play park areas had been set for completion by July 24.

However, Northumberland County Council said the project has been delayed and work will now begin in September.

The local authority said a “slight delay” had held back the commencement of work on the West Wylam site.

And rather than tear up the current play equipment during the summer holidays, the county council said it would begin installation on September 4.

The run-down state of Eastwood Park play areas has been a cause for concern in the area for a number of years.

Northumberland County Council has pledged £50,000 towards the £95,000 bill.

Last February, Prudhoe Town Council earmarked £30,000 in its asset reserve fund to contribute to the work.

Former county councillor Tony Reid contributed the remaining £15,000 from his member’s allowance.

The new park will combine a toddler area and an area for older children.

It will feature a 20m zip-slide, two basket swings, a hurricane swing and an inclusive roundabout and multi-play area.

The contract was put out to tender by the county council’s procurement team and Wickstead provided the winning tender.