A NEW play area is now open as part of a neighbourhood regeneration scheme.

A community barbecue attracted more than 100 residents from the Minors Crescent area to celebrate the opening of a new Warwick Square play area.

Darlington Mayor, Councillor Veronica Copeland, cut the ribbon to welcome children into the park, funded by Darlington Borough Council and North Star Housing.

During the event, community members were also asked to give their views on what the final phase of the play area plan should include.

The project was overseen by Groundwork North East and Cumbria and programme manager Lisa Locke, said: “Warwick Square has been a lovely project to see through to completion and it’s fantastic to see that children are already enjoying the benefits of a new play facility on their doorstep.”

Councillor Andy Scott, cabinet member for housing, added: “It’s great to see this latest addition to the community facilities can now be enjoyed by youngsters and we look forward to working with residents and our partners on the next phase of the project."