IT'S all systems go regarding the installation of more than £50,000 worth of equipment at a play park in Tavistock.

The investment in the Courtlands park sparked controversy earlier this year when residents claimed they had not been consulted on the plans.

Since then, the town council, which owns the land, has held meetings with people living in the area and asked for their input regarding the proposals.

Cllr Mandy Govier, town mayor, told members at last week's meeting of the full council that the most recent consultation had been extremely successful. She paid tribute to the hard work put in by the town clerk, his deputy and the council's works superintendent.

'Their work has been absolutely incredible. They've been to every property in the area, they've taken the plans around and I think every single resident has signed a declaration to say they are happy with the plans,' said Cllr Govier.

'It's a complete turn-around and the staff deserve a huge vote of thanks from us all.'

The town council was successful in attracting a grant of £45,000 from the Playbuilder scheme — set up to improve adventure play facilities for eight to 13-year-olds — to refurbish the Courtlands play park. The balance of the project cost comes from the council.

The money will be spent on a variety of modern pieces, including swings, climbing frames, equipment for ball games and landscaping in the area.

Town clerk Roger Howard said: 'It's all very modern stuff to encourage young people in exciting play.

'Work will start on it in November and we are hoping it will be all up and running before Christmas.'