Row over play equipment brews

STORM clouds are brewing in Needham Market over the inspection of play equipment in one of the town's parks.

The play equipment at the centre of the dispute is in Crowley Park, on Barretts Lane, and consists of swings, slides and a roundabout.

The equipment is inspected weekly by Needham Market town council, who were furious when Mid Suffolk District Council inspected it without their permission and then highlighted some faults.

The inspections were part of a training course on the inspection of play equipment run by Mid Suffolk District Council, which costs £75.

Ian Mason, chairman of Needham Market Town Council, said: "I think they have got a damn cheek. Our equipment is always checked and so why should we spend £75 when our safety record is second to none."

In addition, the town council also suspects that the damage highlighted, including damage to a swing frame, was not their fault.

Mr Mason added: "We had inspected the play area and then the next day a tractor from Mid Suffolk District Council cut the grass around it.

"Then they had a training course and they found loads of faults which were not there when we inspected it."

He added: "It made very good sense to use our play equipment because their offices are just opposite. Had they asked for permission I am sure it would have been granted, but it is the lack of courtesy that irritated the town council."

A spokeswoman for Mid Suffolk District Council said: "I am sure that the town council would share our concerns and would be happy that we brought any problems to their attention because child safety is one of our priorities and I am sure it is one of theirs too."

She added that the park was only chosen because of its close proximity to their offices and was unwilling to get involved in pointing the finger of blame for the faults.

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www.midsuffolk.gov.uk