PEOPLE living near a Strensall play park say a new climbing frame has ruined their privacy because it overlooks their bedrooms and living rooms.

The 11 foot climbing frame was officially unveiled by York Outer MP Julian Sturdy at the weekend, but residents whose homes back on to the Kirklands play park say the equipment provides views directly in to their homes.

Anne Rutherford, 63, is one resident of Knapton Close who is angry at the perceived lack of consultation with locals over the new equipment and the invasion of privacy.

She said: “It’s 11 foot high but the bungalow I live in, and my neighbours’, is elevated above the ground level of the play area.

“You don’t put a climbing frame 15 feet from somebody’s boundary fence. I had three teenage boys nudging each other and looking at me once while I was putting clothes away.”

The equipment was purchased by Strensall and Towthorpe Parish Council after it received a government Playbuilder grant. However the cash had to be used before the end of March or funding would have been withdrawn.

Geoff Harrison, another Knapton Close resident, wrote to The Press saying the frame “appeared some 20 feet the other side” of his garden fence.

“I had not been consulted regarding the siting of this equipment and given no prior warning of its arrival.”

He said: “It is believed the finances had to be spent by the end of March giving sufficient time for the due consultation process to be carried out yet the apparatus was erected on February 18.”

Peter Jesse, chairman of Strensall and Towthorpe Parish Council, said: “We are considering a solution and we will be consulting with residents on this matter.

“We still need to talk to City of York Council and the supplier about what we have in mind.

“We have listened to the residents and we will be trying to do something that will be a positive solution for everyone.”

Mr Jesse said the council had also received a 67-signature petition from parents in the area who supported the new equipment.