May opening planned for two new playgrounds

Designer Emily Jennings said that the new playgrounds would be "transformational" for the children of St Helier

Work on two new playgrounds in Jersey has been gathering pace with an official opening planned for early May, according to a town centre manager.

St Helier town centre manager Connor Burgher said the new playgrounds at Parade Gardens, one for children aged six and under and another for older children, were "very nearly there".

He said: "We're really hopeful that after a few safety checks we can be open in the next couple weeks."

Mr Burgher said the £750,000 project was "well within budget".

In January, major pieces of equipment were being delivered and installation was well under way in both parks

Once opened, the playgrounds will feature an embankment tunnel, swings, a xylophone and a playhouse, the Parish of St Helier said.

Asked why there was a need for two playgrounds, Mr Burgher said: "I think the play needs are very, very different for young children up to seven and then over seven.

"If you have a little toddler you don't necessarily want them somewhere where a slightly older child who will be, quite frankly, in a good way, causing havoc running around a park, having a great time."