CHILDREN in Barry will be able to explore a new facility thanks to a £70,000 investment by Vale of Glamorgan Council.

During lockdown, work has taken place to transform the outdated play area at Highlight Park into an ultra-modern space, complete with the latest equipment.

Having undergone a total revamp, the new play area occupies the same space as the old one, but now has an emergency services theme.

Inspired by the nearby fire station and health centre, it contains a plaque dedicated to key workers, balance beams, stepping stones and much more.

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The play area, designed for children up to 12 years old, was officially opened this week and is already proving popular.

Its redevelopment is part of a widespread programme of work to improve play areas across the county.

Vale council cabinet member for leisure, arts and culture, Cllr Kathryn McCaffer said: “This work at Highlight Park will transform an outdated play area into a modern space full of the latest equipment to spark the imagination and encourage outdoor play in our younger children.

“This is part of a substantial programme of work that has seen play areas across the Vale upgraded over the last few years and Highlight Park is just one of a number that is undergoing such treatment at the moment.”

Dyfan ward councillor, Vince Bailey said: “We’ve long been campaigning for improvements to be made to the playpark in Highlight Park, and it’s great to see that those plans we fought so hard to secure are now complete.”

Cllr Leighton Rowlands added: “It’s wonderful to see the transformation of this park, and with everything that’s happened over the last few months it’s great to see that local residents now have a state-of-the-art facility they can enjoy.

"We are appreciative of the work of council staff to take on board our concerns and make this happen.”