BUILT in the 1970s, an Ipswich play area long overdue for improvement could get a £47,000 facelift.Ipswich Borough Council says the play equipment at Webb Street is still safe, but had a life expectancy of 15 years so is overdue for replacement.

BUILT in the 1970s, an Ipswich play area long overdue for improvement could get a £47,000 facelift.

Ipswich Borough Council says the play equipment at Webb Street is still safe, but had a life expectancy of 15 years so is overdue for replacement.

It also does not conform to European safety standards.

A report to be considered by councillors at the Community Improvements Steering Group tomorrow adds that dogs can run in the play area. Unsupervised younger children could also fall through the gaps between slats on seats.

Community group People at the Centre of Ipswich is contributing up to £10,000 towards the cost, after organising a petition signed by 46 nearby residents wanting improvements.

Temporary improvements have been made since the petition was done.

But self-closing gates, new fencing and seats, trees, a pedestrian barrier to protect children from running out into Station Street are now on the cards, including new play equipment for four to ten-year-olds.

Facilities for older children may be built on adjacent land at Croft Street.

School pupils are also being invited to add their ideas.

Funding of £17,000 has already been agreed, and councillors on the committee have been recommended to consider spending £15,000 on the project.

That would still leave £15,000 shortfall, but the report added: "The play area is in need of refurbishment and a contribution from the community improvements budget would increase the likelihood of the scheme proceeding."