A TOWN'S new £200,000 play area will open tomorrow.

The playground, which is based on the site of the old play area in New Street, Upton, has been under construction since September 3.

The new facility will include a 30-metre zip wire, climbing frame and a range of other equipment.

Town councillor Betty Williams said: "This play area was needed.

"The kids needed somewhere to go that was decent, it was a bit inadequate before.

"There wasn't a lot there for them, there was just swings, roundabouts and the skate park.

"This new one is fantastic. It's upmarket. I think we were lucky to get the money and I think it's been spent well.

"I hope the children get every bit of pleasure they can out of it."

The project has been funded by contributions from housing developers, known as Section 106 funds.

Mrs Williams, who walks past the play area every day, said she think the facility will provide kids with something to do.

The councillor added that it may boost Upton's economy as parents will know that they can drop their kids off at the park and do some shopping.

She thanked the council's clerk Jo Adams, and town councillors Henrietta Ross, Shirley Dobbin and Kerry Laughton-McConnon, for overseeing the play area project.

The construction of the site went according to schedule, with work finishing in less than eight weeks.

Parents were consulted on the plans and chose to go with the design submitted by play equipment firm Kompan.

The official opening of the playground will take place at 11am tomorrow.

There will be balloons, Halloween goodies, cakes, squash and lots of play equipment to enjoy.