WORK on upgrading the leisure facilities at Barry’s Gladstone Gardens has ended, with the gates opening to the public this half-term.

The £350,000 investment forms part of the council’s Castleland Renewal Area regeneration scheme.

Improvements include the installation of an outdoor gym for adults, the introduction of a new football and basketball 'multi-use games arena', upgraded tennis courts and an upgrade to the children’s play area.

Re-surfacing and fencing have also taken place.

The new play area - featuring a play tower, spinner bowl, three-way seesaw, and a variety of swings - are designed with a seaside theme as suggested by children during a consultation exercise held last summer.

Barry Youth Action highlighted potential improvements to the Vale council - organising consultation workshops with pupils from nearby primary schools as well as contributing their own ideas and suggestions.

There are also new boards with QR codes which visitors can scan to gain access to a sport and fitness app which has exercises and nutrition information.

Future plans include open gym sessions with personal trainers visiting to host training sessions.

Vale council leader councillor Neil Moore said: "It now offers residents a range of fun and active installations to enjoy throughout the year.

“The online surveys and focus groups, as well as the drop-in sessions for local residents, helped us shape this fantastic area, so I hope the local community will go on to feel very proud of it.”

The Gladstone Gardens work forms part of a programme to upgrade both the upper and lower gardens.

Other works include the restoration of the original balustrade walling, which is currently taking place, and the upgrade of footpaths.

Planting is due to take place in the spring and autumn.