A COUNCIL is in the process of investing £1.1m into children’s play areas.

The Eastleigh Borough Council money is being used to install new play areas and refurbish existing sites across the region as part of a ‘play area improvement programme’.

Thousands of children and families are now said to be enjoying the facilities already installed.

So far, new developments at Leah Gardens, North Stoneham Park, Bowlake Gardens and Hatch Farm have benefited from the programme.

Refurbishments have also taken place on existing sites at Grantham Green and Leigh Road.

Cabinet Lead for Health, Cllr Tonia Craig, said: “I’m pleased and proud that we are investing over £1.1million in play areas for our communities across the Borough to enjoy.

“They provide safe and stimulating environments for our children to explore and have fun.

“It also enables them to meet other children and keep active which is great for both their physical and mental health.”

The council says that more play areas are planned for the Borough.

These include:

• Pirelli Park, Eastleigh

• Boorley Green, Botley

• Heron Walk, Kingfisher Grange and Windhover Meadows, Bursledon

• Latitude, Hedge End

• Cheriton Road and Lawn Road in Eastleigh

• Crowdhill in Fair Oak

• Hellyar Rise, Hedge End

A council spokesperson said: “Each play area has its own range of equipment that provide a range of activities for the children.”