MIDDLESBROUGH’S play parks will all reopen from Wednesday after facilities remained padlocked over the weekend.

Youngsters in the town were locked out of play areas on Saturday despite others in neighbouring Stockton and Redcar and Cleveland welcoming back visitors. 

But now officials have revealed the parks will begin to reopen on Wednesday and explained the reason behind the delay. 

New signs and assessments to make sure each play area was safe were behind the weekend closure – with Middlesbrough Council staff making sure each park hadn’t deteriorated while their gates were shut during lockdown. 

It is understood the town’s relatively high Covid rate was not behind the call. 

Play equipment in Albert Park and Stewart Park is due to open from Tuesday (July 7) with remaining play parks across the town reopening from Wednesday.

Cllr Mieka Smiles, executive member for culture and communities, said: “I know from happy days out with my children how much kids love to burn off energy at the park, so it’s great the slides and swings will be back in action.

“It’s been sad to see them fenced off for so long but it was essential to keep people safe.

“New signage is being installed around the play parks, reminding parents of the risks of Covid-19 and what they can do to keep their little ones safe.

“Once the signage is in place, we’ll inspect the equipment to make sure it is ready for use. 

“Let’s hope we have some great weather this summer so people can get out and enjoy our parks and play areas.”

It is understood Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston made the decision to reopen play parks last week after the Government gave the green light for councils to reopen them. 

Stockton and Redcar and Cleveland’s play areas opened on Saturday in line with the relaxation of restrictions on pubs and restaurants reopening, 

Middesbrough’s major parks reopened to the public on June 1 – but play areas and a number of benches remained fenced off.