LIB Dem party leader on Wirral Council, Phil Gilchrist, is concerned over the group's hopes for Millennium play areas.

A report going before last night's Leisure and Tourism committee, says the councillor for Eastham, reveals that out of Wirral's 81 play areas, 36 meet current safety standards.

"This report shows that Wirral is falling behind on standards and needs to make more progress. This is precisely what we have been saying since we first put forward our Millennium play area proposals last October.

"If our recent budget proposals had been passed there would have been £125,000 set aside for play area improvements as a practical way of celebrating the Millennium while leaving a lasting legacy for Wirral's children."

Coun Gilchrist says that while some funds have been placed in the Labour Council's budget to celebrate the Millennium, he is concerned about the amount being spent on play areas. "Spring and Summer are just around the corner and the Millennium is creeping up on us fast!" warns Coun. Gilchrist.

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