Council chiefs will spend nearly half a million pounds upgrading and refurbishing play parks in the city.
Councillors yesterday approved a 470,000 programme for the year ahead following a £1.2million investment in the play areas over the previous 12 months.
Yesterday councillors on the strategic commissioning committee agreed to the proposed budget.
Revealed: The Aberdeen playparks that are in line for improvements
The list of sites has yet to be finalised, with between 10 and 15 projects anticipated.
A report presented to councillors stated that these were likely to include Balgownie Drive, Ferryhill Community Centre, Gallowgate, Eric Hendrie Park, Seaton Avenue South, Ashwood Park and Cruickshank Crescent.
Upgrades of facilities could also include works carried out at play parks on Broaddykes Way, Rosemount Square, Wellside Wynd and Seaton Gardens South.
Sites at Regent Walk, Middle Brae and Sheddocksley Community Centre could also be refurbished.
The report adds that there are a total of 146 play areas in the city and a review in 2012 found they were all in a declining state.
Last year’s programme was delayed due to the poor weather from the Beast from the East.
The report adds: “There has also been an issue with a shortage of specialist installation contractors with sufficient experience to install play equipment but all play areas are on track to be completed by the end of May 2018.”
Council co-leader Jenny Laing, who is also the convener of the strategic commissioning committee, said improving playparks had hidden benefits.
She said: “The play park improvement programme was a key commitment in the 2017/18 budget and it has been fantastic to see the work being carried out across Aberdeen.
“We value the role play has in the lives of children and investment in facilities is vital if our ambitions for young people in Aberdeen are to be realised – we want everyone to have the chance to fulfil their potential, and the best start in life is part of that.
“Thriving and well-used play parks also help create a community focal point and foster a sense of pride in the area they serve, so the benefits are felt by all.
“This year’s investment will bring the total to in excess of £1.6m over two years and the spending demonstrates Aberdeen City Council’s priorities in helping young people and communities to flourish.”
Liberal Democrat group leader Ian Yuill said: “The investment in these play areas is really welcome.”
