Parents say new park unsuitable for older children

The finished redevelopment will provide "dynamic and high-level play for children of all abilities", says council

A consultation is under way after play equipment for older children was removed from a popular park in Brighton as part of a refurbishment.

The first phase of a £200,000 upgrade at Hove Park included removing a wooden trim trail, a climbing pole, a spinning disc, an overhead carousel and a zip wire from a junior play area.

One child said they were "sad" as the new installations are "way too small for the bigger kids to use", adding that removing equipment for older children was "annoying".

Brighton and Hove City Council said the next phase of the redevelopment will provide "dynamic and high-level play for children of all abilities".

Lisa Sheridan said she often takes her two children, aged 8 and 11, to the playground.

She told BBC Radio Sussex: "A couple of years ago equipment was removed and replaced with smaller versions, too small for my kids."

She said the equipment suitable for her children now "was either removed a few years ago or earlier this year - some of this was due to the equipment reaching the end of its life".

Children have said they enjoyed using the zip wire and the sand pit, which have been removed.

Some said the new castle equipment is too small for bigger children, "which was upsetting".

One said they wanted the "twisty green slide" to return.

Ms Sheridan said she would be in favour of a smaller playground for younger children and a separate play area with bigger equipment for older children.

'Much loved'

Brighton & Hove City Council has launched an online consultation for residents to find out about the proposals for Hove Park.

It said it plans to "rejuvenate" the junior play area with "dynamic and high-level play features", including a circular seating area and a new trim trail.

Councillor Teresa Fowler said Hove Park is "much loved" and she would take her children there when they were younger for a "whole day".

"There is now a budget of £200,000 which was agreed at the committee yesterday for the park.

"I really would encourage anyone interested to engage with the consultation."

The Hove Park consultation is open until 27 March.