WORK has begun to create an outdoor play area on disused land in Batford, Harpenden, thanks to grant money issued by a consortium of local authorities.

Children will be able to enjoy an array of equipment at the new play area, adjacent to Porters Hill open space, including a zip wire, basket swing and wooden climbing frame, with further equipment likely to be installed at a later stage.

The site, designed by Groundwork Hertfordshire to include cycle racks, pathways, seating and bins, has received Government funding and cash boosts from the county, district and parish councils, The Harpenden Trust, London Luton Airport Community Trust Fund, Councillor Bernard Lloyd through the Locality Budget Scheme, Hertfordshire Police Authority and RWE Npower Renewables.

Councillor Sheila Burton, the relevant cabinet member, said: “This is an excellent example of how many groups working together, and involving local residents, can drive a project forward. Thanks to Batford Community Action Group who were instrumental in galvanizing local support for this play area."

Chris Grey, chairman of Batford Community Action Group, said: “A great deal of thought has gone into the design of the park, taking into account the children's ideas and making it fully inclusive to make sure it really is what the community really wants.”

Councillor Bernard Lloyd added: “"This is a great project and I am pleased to see that all the hard work over months and even years is now coming to fruition and that this land will once again be brought into use to meet the needs of the local community."