Top marks must go to the people in charge of Darlington's play areas. The one at Broken Scar is the latest to be upgraded, and a visit there shows how much it is appreciated. All the fittings appear to be of a high quality and some new features appeal to the adventurous spirit of children.
A climbing frame and lie-in swing are particularly popular, while a sand pit with a JCB-style digger is a big attraction for toddlers. A play area in the Denes has also been improved in an admirable manner lately and is being well used. Another in North Lodge park was enhanced some time ago and seems to be getting a lot of use. Meanwhile the play area in South Park is drawing larger numbers than in the past, with its new annexe for younger children proving a first class addition.
Comments by parents in all these places show they are delighted with the results. A typical remark overheard is: "All this must have cost a fortune. Let's hope the vandals don't come in and spoil it." Just about everyone will share that hope. The overall verdict is that these improvements have been rates money well spent.