As you know, Monkseaton South Ward is short of play areas of young children. There are only two at the moment, at opposite extremes, one at Wilton Drive on Earsdon Grange, and the other near to Monkseaton Station. Following my campaigning, I am delighted to say that the Council has now been able to allocate funds, to be added to the funds from developers, which should enable a new, high standard, play area to be provided. This has taken a lot of hard work, and I will keep on top of it, but I am now hopeful we will get the new play area in the next financial year (starting in April0.

I know we should not count our chickens before they come home to roost, but I would like to thank the people, including Council officers, who have helped us on this matter.