A significant refurbishment of a village play area has been completed - the first major update to the facilities since 2002.

The upgrades in Middleton St George, near Darlington, include new toddler and junior climbing frames, basket swings, sensory panels, and a series of new accessible paths, making the play area more inclusive and enjoyable for children of all ages and abilities.

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The refurbishment project has been a community-driven effort, with more 180 responses received by the parish council during a public consultation. The council said the valuable feedback provided by residents helped shape the final design, ensuring that the needs of the community were met.

(Image: Contributor)

Simon Pleydell, chair of the parish council, said: “It’s fantastic to see the play area at Middleton St George revitalised with modern equipment that the whole community can enjoy.

(Image: Contributor)

“This has been a long time coming, and we’re grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation to help make this project a reality. We’re excited for local children and families to benefit from these improvements for many years to come.”

The play area is now open to the public, with further plans to install additional features in the coming months, dependent on funding.