A CHILDREN'S play area is set to be moved so that it doesn't get in the way of the annual Southampton Boat Show.

Tory civic chiefs are today set to agree to relocate the playground in Mayflower Park to its north east corner, next to public toilets.

Equipment will be upgraded and a new water feature provided with jets of water that can be turned on by children for "safe play".

The new play area will contain a rocking boat, maze, watch tower, swings and picnic benches among other attractions to "reflect the importance of Mayflower park as a landmark" within the city. It will cost about £0.5m.

The works will be done in the spring in time for next year's boatshow.

It comes as the council is in talks with boat show organisers British Marine Federation (BMF) about extending its contract beyond 2009.

The BMF has pledged to stay in the city until 2013.