A TAVISTOCK play area is to receive a huge boost, following the award of a substantial grant by the Devon County council-sponsored Play Builder scheme.

The Courtlands Road playpark has received £45,000 to provide the area with equipment for youngsters aged eight to 13-years-old.

But the move has angered some nearby residents who have said that they have not been consulted over the issue, claiming it will impact their view and cause problems with parking.

Tavistock Town Council, which owns the area, is also investing £5,000 in the scheme.

Four plans have been drawn up which incorporate innovative fun and exciting play equipment — each will cost £50,000 to install.

Wayne Southall, works superintendent for the council, said: 'The whole idea is to provide areas for older children and to incorporate equipment for eight to 13-year olds — predominantly for girls.'

Featured in all of the plans are seating areas where youngsters can socialise, with innovative climbing frames, swings, slides and seesaws.

Roger Howard, clerk for the council, said: 'We have been given a £45,000 grant to develop Courtlands Road play area with equipment for older children — but there are a few concerns from some residents in that area.

'The grant has to be spent and the area has to be up and running by March 31.'

Nearby resident Jamie Henshawe expressed his concerns over the proposed play park at last week's council meeting.

He said: 'We have not received any consultation about this. It directly impacts on our houses.

'We back right onto the basketball court — this is a failure on the part of the council.'

Gary Randall said: 'My concern is if you are putting in a premier play area in this area, transport will be a problem. We already see a lot of cars coming up here to bring children to play.'

Fiona Randall said she went to a meeting with town councillor Robin Pike‚ but said the meeting was only advertised by a sign at the park.

She said: 'Not everyone walks through the park. There are a lot of elderly people who live around there — it seems unfair that they haven't been consulted.'

Town mayor Mandy Govier said further consultation would be made with residents and she hoped people's concerns would be allayed.

She said: 'Children who live in the area have to play somewhere and that site has been designated as a play area for children.

'This is a huge opportunity for this town and this area.

'It's great for children to be able to play safely somewhere, and one of the best things about this area is it is surrounded by houses so it is very safe.'

A consultation evening to discuss the options for the play park will be held at the council chamber on Tuesday, September 22 from 6pm until 8pm. All interested residents welcome.