COUNCILLORS in Prudhoe are looking at ways to improve the town’s play parks.

Following the annual safety inspection by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Prudhoe Town Council received a report detailing the risk level of any issues identified in the parks it manages.

Following some low-level risks identified at the Copse toddler play area, cleaning work will be carried out.

Orchard Hill play area was visited by councillors Jennifer McGee, Gerry Price and George McCreedy following the inspection.

Councillors said the play area, which was designed for teenagers, was in “a bit of a state”, while the report outlined some damage to the gate, a lack of dog ban signs and some broken glass and graffiti.

Councillors discussed removing the equipment and keeping it as a green open space or having it revamped for use by different age groups.

Coun. Eileen Burt said: “I think we have taken a lot of action over the years with the play areas.

“I don’t have any problem with doing anything at Orchard Hill if it is going to be used and if it is low cost.

“Orchard Hill was designed for teenagers, so we must consult with them about whether they want it.

“I have been there with the police over the years when there has been some bother with anti-social behaviour.

“It’s nothing major, but if they are not gathering there, they are going to gather elsewhere.”

It was agreed to consult residents in the area around the park to find out what they would like to happen.

Highfield Skate Park was the only park with high-risk issues and councillors noted that this was always the case because of the nature of the park.