A flood-hit Carlisle play area is unlikely to reopen until late summer, it has been revealed.

The popular Bitts Park facility is usually busy at this time of year as families take advantage of good whether.

But it has been standing closed since December, when floods swamped much of the park during Storm Desmond.

Carlisle City Council says that due to complex repairs needed, it is likely to remain closed until the later part of the summer holidays.

A spokeswoman said that work is progressing, with new equipment on order, but there is still a lot to be done.

Part of the delay has been down to the damage caused to electrical equipment in the “splash zone” water play area.

They are also working to make the area as flood-proof as possible to protect the site in the event of future incidents.

“Bitts Park play area was badly damaged by the flood. The water penetrated the electronic and mechanical components of the splash zone and lifted the safety surfacing across the site,” she explained. “The safety of children using the site is paramount and we have no option but to take steps to remove damaged equipment.”

“We have resurfaced the ground and replacement play equipment has been ordered. We aim to make the site as flood resilient as possible.”

She added: “We hope to get the site up and running as soon as possible, hopefully in time for the later part of the school summer holidays or sooner, if possible.”

The council thanked families for their patience and stressed that there are still plenty of places they can go to enjoy the sunshine.

“Bitts Park’s grounds are still open and the paths and open spaces are still accessible,” added the spokeswoman.

“Our other parks and open spaces are open too and we’d encourage residents with families who want to use play facilities to use alternative sites such as Hammond’s Pond or Talkin Tarn Country Park. Both have cafes and provide activities for children.”

Other facilities in the park that are now open include the Urban Adventure high ropes course and its tennis courts.