A playground in North Belfast is to be redeveloped with state-of-the-art equipment and new surfacing.

Work will begin on the £400,000 upgrades at Navarra Place playground between Mulderg Drive and Serpentine Road next month.

A new multi-games play area will also be created as part of the project, along with the replacement of the Serpentine Road interface structure with ball stop fencing.

The scheme is co-funded by Belfast City Council, the Department of Justice and T:BUC (Together: Building A United Community) from the Executive Office. 

Planning approval was granted for the work at the Planning Committee on 15 January.

Welcoming the news, Councillor Peter Johnston, Chair of Belfast City Council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, said: "Through this investment, we aim to create an attractive open space that families and children from all communities can enjoy. The project is a great example of partnership work to date with the local community being involved and informed with the support of Greater Whitewell Community Surgery.

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"There was overwhelming support for the project with 95% of respondents to the community consultation supporting the design proposals, including the replacement of the interface structure with ball stop fencing. It highlights the benefits of investing in local communities tying in to our Belfast Agenda 'living here' objective of improving neighbourhoods and good relations."

Anthony Harbinson, Director of Safer Communities, Department of Justice, added: "This scheme is a positive development for the community and an excellent example of collaboration between public bodies to deliver positive change for residents. In addition to the new and improved park facilities, an important part of this project is the replacement of the Serpentine Road interface barrier with a new park boundary fence. I'm sure that all residents will look forward to using and enjoying the new facilities."

(CM)