CHILDREN and young people in part of York are being urged to have their say on plans for new play facilities in their neighbourhood.

Tens of thousands of pounds are to be spent in Clifton, to refurbish the play park in Ashton Avenue, and community leaders say they want the public to help shape the proposals.

Local councillor Ken King said: “I’m delighted that the local community will be given the opportunity to give its views on how best we spend this money. The Government rightly acknowledges the important role of play in child development, and ward councillors are extremely grateful to it for providing this investment in our children’s futures.”

Coun King said tenders for the work were due to be submitted to City of York Council by the end of this month, and said there would then be a public meeting to discuss possible designs and ideas.

“If people want to influence the final design then they need to come along to that event once it is publicised and that especially includes the youngsters that will use it in the future,” he said.

Ashton Avenue is one of 11 play areas being developed this year. The others are at Keble Park in Bishopthorpe, Brecksfield in Skelton, Naburn Village Hall, Elvington Sports Field, Mancroft in Haxby, Back Park in Balfour Street in Holgate, Orchard Park in Huntington, Copmanthorpe Recreation Ground, Viking Road in Acomb and Chesney’s Field/Gale Lane in Westfield.

They are among 22 sites across York to benefit in the next two years from the Government’s Playbuilder scheme.

The city received £1.1 million earlier this year from a £235 million national pot, of which about £50,000 will go to Ashton Avenue. Government guidance says the facilities should be aimed at eight to 13-year-olds and must be open-access, outdoor play spaces near where children live.