A playground in west Belfast has been significantly improved under a new programme of refurbishment works.

Westlands playground in Waterworks Park went through a key refurbishment as part of Belfast City Council's Playground Improvement Programme 2022/23.

Approximately £300,000 was invested in the playground, which now includes new and interactive play equipment.

The Playground Improvement Programme has been in place since 2012 and has helped transform play parks across the city into safe, inviting, inclusive and exciting places for children to play and socialise.

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Welcoming the investment, Chair of the People and Communities Committee, Councillor Micky Murray said: "It's brilliant to see play parks being given a new lease of life through our Playground Improvement Programme. This investment underlines the positive commitment Belfast City Council continues to make in supporting communities.

"Playgrounds offer a safe and welcoming environment for children to meet and play, encouraging them from a young age to be active, helping to encourage healthier lifestyles which is of course a key focus of our Belfast Agenda. The new equipment will be enjoyed by children of all ages and abilities."

The new play equipment in Westlands playground includes a wheelchair accessible swing, inclusive roundabout, and acoustic equipment for sensory play, alongside more traditional equipment, such as swings, climbing units and slides for all ages.

Work has also been carried out on the area surrounding the playground, including improvements to the paths to allow better access to the facility.