Aberdeen City Council has pledged more than £500,000 towards refurbishing the city’s play parks for the next year.
The local authority has been continually upgrading the Granite City’s 146 play areas since a 2012 inspection found many were in a state of severe disrepair.
Councillors hope the project will be completed by 2027, and have now confirmed funding of £590,000 for the next year.
Over the last financial year, the council has upgraded 18 parks around the city, working closely with community councils and other groups who raised funds to improve facilities, such as the new skate park at Kincorth Circle.
And for the 2017/18 financial year, the council has earmarked a further 18 areas for refurbishment, including sites at Westfield Park in the Bridge of Don, Colthill Road in Milltimber and more.
Councillor Gordon Graham, vice-convener of the communities, housing and infrastructure committee, said that funding play parks is a key part of the local authority’s drive to encourage children to exercise outside.
He said: “It’s something that I think all parents across the city agree on, and our work to fix up these play parks is something that a lot of people look forward to.
“I myself in my own ward have seen great improvements at play areas around Northfield and Mastrick, it really makes a huge difference for mums and dads to have a fun, safe, outdoor place they can take their children and spend some time together.
“It’s very important for the kids to get outdoors and play, and I’m happy we’re able to continue to fund this project.”
