A COUNCIL is aiming to cut down on the number of compensation claims it receives by improving its inspections of children's playgrounds.

Although Hartlepool Borough Council staff carry out daily inspections on all 13 of its playgrounds, the number of accident compensation claims it receives is increasing.

In order to defend the claims, the authority wants to step-up inspections and be in a position to respond to vandalism and repairs as soon as possible.

At present, staff from neighbourhood services close to a play area complete the inspections each day.

But this produces more than 3,000 paper reports each year, which are difficult to analyse and claims can date back several years.

If a fault is found, the staff record it, but do not fix it. If the fault is urgent then the relevant officers are contacted for immediate action.

The council has now proposed employing an officer who would be solely responsible for the inspections of the play areas.

A report to the council's town management portfolio, which meets on Friday, said: "The same number of inspections would take place and would be recorded on a computer based recording system.

"The officer would also be empowered and trained to undertake repairs. This might be as simple as removing or replacing a damaged swing seat.

"This instant response not only leaves the playground safe, but reduces the risk of insurance claims related to any accidents associated with the defect."

Members of the committee are being asked to approve the new method of inspections, recording and repair of the playgrounds