CONCERNS have been voiced about the state of a popular children's play area.

The condition of the site, within Central Park at Haworth, has been described as appalling.

Villager Anita Selby, whose young granddaughter has used the facility, says the equipment needs attention and the surface is potentially dangerous.

"Most of the park is beautiful – the gardens appear to be regularly maintained and are enjoyed by residents, visitors and tourists alike – but the state of the children’s playground is appalling," she said.

"The rubber surfacing has deteriorated so much that apart from being unsightly, it is also a trip hazard and dangerous.

"The equipment needs attention – for instance, the handles on the see-saw are loose.

"There is no fence around the playground, as there is at many other such sites, which allows dogs to access the area. There is also quite a steep slope behind the playground that small children and toddlers could easily fall down. A fence would prevent this.

"The playground has been neglected for too long. Surely it is time that this play area received attention? It needs updating and to be made a safe area for the many children who love to spend time there. Maybe the local schools could be involved and give some input as to what the children would like it to look like?"

She has contacted Bradford Council online to express her concerns.

Her six-year-old granddaughter, Lola Melody Morrison, has also composed a letter giving her view. "I need to complain about Haworth Park," she said. "I think we need a new swing. The rubber floor has chunks picked out. The garden is beautiful."

The council says a refurbishment of the Central Park playground forms part of its Playable Spaces Strategy programme of works and that consultation is about to begin.

"We have allocated £6.5m in funding for play spaces across the district and this is one of them," said a spokesperson. "To make sure the refurbishment fits the needs of local young people, we will be carrying out engagement work with them specifically. We’d like to thank Anita and her granddaughter Lola for their suggestions, which will be considered as part of this process."

Worth Valley district councillor Rebecca Poulsen says she was approached about the condition of the surfacing at the play area – and in Holden Park at Oakworth – and raised the issue with the council.

"There is a problem nationally with this type of surfacing – where shrinkage occurs," she said. "The parks department is aware.

"Play areas are supposed to be inspected regularly to ensure they are safe and I could ask for a double-check to be made at Haworth.

"The Friends of the park are always happy to welcome new members. Anyone interested can get involved and give their support.

"It is a very well used and popular park.

"In relation to dogs, there is a control order in place so dogs have to be on a lead at all times."