WORK to refurbish a children’s play park is expected to take three months to complete.

The old fixed play equipment Ayton Park play area near Crowther Road in Washington has already been removed from the site.

When it is finished, the park will offer updated swings, a track rider, rockers, a toddler unit for all ability levels, and a springie which allows children to get on and off by themselves.

Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “It is fantastic to see work starting on this play area, which will provide a safe, inclusive and exciting place for the children of the area to meet and play.

“Initiatives to improve the health and wellbeing of all our citizens is a priority so this development is a welcome addition to the area, and as a ward councillor for Ayton I am delighted to see the hard work done for the ward by Cllr Louise Farthing and I is paying off.”

As well as the new play equipment, new seating and wildflower planting is planned for the park.

The project is backed by Section 106 funding from the housing development on the former Emerson House site.

Adrian Barton, northern director of the contractor, BCE, said: “The council’s continued investment in these projects is providing high quality facilities for both the local community and visitors to enjoy over the coming years.”