South Ribble Borough Council has approved a £200,000 investment to improve facilities at Strawberry Valley Park on Bent Lane.

The council will spend £175,000 on play equipment and a new court for basketball and football. Pending full council approval in July, it is expected that the new Leyland play area could be open before the end of the year.

Friends of Strawberry Valley Park secured a £30,000 grant from the Lancashire Environment Fund towards the cost of the upgrades.

Read more: Plans to turn floors above Preston city centre fishing tackle shop into accommodation

Cllr Matthew Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Assets, said: “We’re delighted to be able to deliver what will be a fantastic asset for the local community.

“It is absolutely vital that our children have access to quality, clean and safe play facilities. Play isn’t just about having fun – it’s incredibly important for children’s physical and mental health. Access to the right facilities can also reduce anti-social behaviour.”

During a cabinet meeting on Wednesday 16 June, members committed a further £200,000 to make the land safe after discovering that the site was formerly used as a landfill and posed a contamination risk.

Read more: Preston trams project to convert Gamull Lane listed building into new HQ

Cllr Tomlinson said: “Strawberry Valley Park has seen little investment over recent years, having last been refurbished back in 2002. The new, improved play area will be a wonderful place for families to come and enjoy themselves and socialise with other members of the community.

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Friends of Strawberry Valley Park on all their hard work to promote this play area – including their successful application for a £30,000 grant from the Lancashire Environment Fund towards the cost of new equipment.

“The council is more than pleased to do its bit, and we can’t wait for young residents to be able to enjoy the finished results.”

Designs for the upgraded play area were finalised following a recent public consultation.

Find things to do with the kids near you

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines

Are you looking forward to the new play area? Let us know in the comments below