A newly refurbished playground has been officially opened in north Belfast.

The Hammer playground underwent £280,000 upgrades, including the replacement of old equipment with a range of new accessible play equipment and acoustic play features for children of all ages. A new multi-use games area was also constructed on the site, as well as landscaping work.

Belfast City Council worked with the Department for Communities to complete the work, before opening the facility up to the public on 09 March.

High Sheriff of Belfast, Alderman Tommy Sandford said: "I'm delighted to open this fantastic playground at the Hammer – to see so many people here and enjoying the new facilities is really rewarding.

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"This investment means children and young people in this area have a safe space to play outdoors and get active, and it has also given them a facility where they can socialise through sport and activity. Improving the health and wellbeing of all our citizens is one of the priorities of our Belfast Agenda, so it's important that we encourage healthy habits among our younger generations to set them up for a healthy future."

Mark O'Donnell from the Department for Communities added: "The Department has a strong relationship with Belfast City Council, based on many years of co-operation. In line with the Department's regeneration objectives, this playground provides an interactive and fun learning environment for children of all abilities. It is a wonderful space that will provide much enjoyment for the children and young people of the area."

(CM/JG)