PLANS for a new £35,000 play area near Carlisle are underway and residents are being asked what they would like to see included in the scheme.

Carlisle City Council is working to redevelop the existing play area on the Tribune Drive estate at Houghton.

It was originally installed in the mid-1990s by the developer but maintenance of the facility and surrounding open space has since transferred to the local authority.

The equipment is almost 25 years old and reaching the end of its lifespan, with two spring rockers and a rope scrambled net already removed from the site.

The city council's scheme includes a complete replacement of the equipment and surfacing within the footprint of the original play area.

It aims to carry out the works in late summer or autumn this year.

Councillor Elizabeth Mallinson, Portfolio holder for Communities, Health and Wellbeing, said: “We’re delighted that the redevelopment is supported by Stanwix Rural Parish Council and Houghton C of E Primary School.

"The new play equipment will create a much-improved facility that will benefit Houghton residents. Please have your say on what equipment you’d like to see included.”

The survey can be found on the city council website at www.carlisle.gov.uk/consultations and takes less than five minutes to complete.

Residents can choose for example if they would prefer to see traditional flat and cradle swings, tyre and rope swings or a mixture of both.

There are also options for different types of climbing frame, a roundabout, seesaw and toddler play activity.

The consultation is open until Friday June 19, 2020.

Following the feedback, a specification reflecting the preferences will be drawn up and tenders requested from play equipment manufacturers.