PLAYGROUNDS will get a much-needed revamp after the government U-turned on its decision to freeze funding.
Plans to transform a host of play areas in parks were put on hold in July when it was revealed Harrow would not get the £595,000 promised for the work.
However, following protests against the cuts by parents and Harrow Council , the full amount has been released by the government and work is under way to refurbish nine playgrounds.
Stanmore mum Susie Nathan and other families joined councillor Mitzi Green, responsible for children's services, and environment and community safety councillor Phillip O'Dell in speaking out against the cuts.
Ms Nathan (pictured right), who regularly takes her 18-month-old daughter, Jesca, to Queensbury Recreation Park, said: "I've spoken to families who desperately want somewhere for their children to play and but there's nothing here for them.
"I got involved in the campaign to persuade the government to give us our funding back because we were so close to getting these fantastic facilities before they were snatched away. I'm really pleased we made a difference and I can't wait to bring my daughter to play in our new park."
Ms Nathan's pleas were noted by council leader Bill Stephenson who wrote to minister of state for children and families Sarah Teather urging her to reconsider.
Play England, a charity that campaigns for open spaces for children to play, is urging other local authorities to follow Harrow's example.
Steve Clown of Play England said: "This is an excellent result for children's play in Harrow.
"Due to wider cuts, local authorities across the country are facing difficult decisions around spending. Cutting opportunities for children's play is a time bomb for their future health, development and happiness, and is detrimental to the wider community.
"We would urge other local authorities to follow Harrow's example, and put children first."
The parks likely to be given a makeover are Brockhurst Corner, Queensbury Recreation Park, Roxbourne Park, The Cedars, The Croft, Byron Park, Shaftesbury Park, Headstone Manor Park and Pinner Memorial Park.
