A play area in Russells Hall has been given a makeover, thanks to extra funding.

The group, Friends of Russells Hall, successfully bided for extra funding from Dudley Council after years of the park being neglected.

A grand opening of the newly transformed park was held, with Councillor Cathryn Bayton of St James Ward cutting the ribbon.

She said: “We are thrilled with the new play area. Councillors working with the Friends of the Park Group and the residents have delivered a vibrant, and fun play area that will provide stimulating play for children up to early teens and we have ensured that some of the equipment is disability friendly, so no one is excluded.

“Russells Hall has had so little investment in terms of community assets, it really was needed for the growing families on the estate. It is just the start though, for the overhaul of the park and we hope to be able to deliver a bit of a revamp to the skate park and see if we can access funding for the basketball court and trim trail. We want the park to be used by the whole community and everyone to feel safe there.”

Gemma Blackford, chair of Friends of Russells Hall said they had a good turn out for the ribbon cutting event. She added: “The turn out and support from residents was amazing and children and adults alike all love the new play area. The company who did the revamp for us, Wicksteed, provided us with goody bags for the children too.

“As a group we prioritised working on the play area first as it was very old, damaged, and simply not fit for purpose. We sought advice from Councillor Cathryn and Parks Development Officer, Julia Morris, at Dudley Council and then began the process of applying for funding and working with providers to draw up plans to create a much-needed new play area.

“I think this revamp will make a huge difference to the local community as there are a lot of young families on the estate who need a fun and safe outdoor area for their children to play. We have had some great feedback so far and it certainly seems a hit with the children! “

The group secured funding for the project in January of this year.