CHILDREN'S play areas could see a huge cash boost if funding is approved by Wirral Council next week.

The upgrade works hope to 'enhance' existing play areas to make them more enjoyable to local children.

Around £240,000 was spent last year on upgrading areas but the Cabinet is now being urged to approve an extra £710,000 spread over the next three years at a meeting on Monday, February 18.

Works would include painting equipment and furniture while replacing worn out, missing or damaged items and surfacing.

Cabinet member for leisure and recreation, Cllr Phillip Brightmore told the Globe: “This is a welcome investment for children and their parents across Wirral, who can benefit from the improved and repaired play areas – many of which are located in our wonderful award-winning parks and green spaces.

“The plans are only able to be implemented because of the careful budget management, careful investment of Council resources to ensure long term funding to replace the reduction in central Government grants which have reduced significantly over recent years.

“Despite the financial challenges we’ve faced Wirral has many award winning parks and open spaces, not least because of the investment by the local authority but also the commitment and hard work of the many volunteers across the borough who give up their time to help look after them.

“The play areas provide somewhere parents can take their children at little or no cost and can provide hours of entertainment in a safe and pleasant environment.

"This is an investment in our children and their future.”

Central Park in Wallasey has recently had its 'Spacenet' replaced while Bedford Road's play area has been painted with damaged equipment and surfacing replaced and new seating installed.

The next phase of works will include; Arrowe Park, Gayton playing fields, Marfords Park, Thorsway and Upton Park.