MORE CLOSURES will be in place at a popular park in Yate while the next stage of its £300k refurbishment is underway. 

The revamp, which began in the spring, is at its next stage, which will mean closures on the MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) and toddler area. 

As of last Friday, September 1, the MUGA area will be closed for around two weeks, while the toddler area will be closed for around nine weeks starting on Monday (September 11) – although these timelines may be subject to change.

The progress on the park's revamp has been welcomed by councillors. 

Chris Willmore, South Gloucestershire councillor for the Yate North ward said: “This next phase is the most exciting.

“This will see the entire younger children’s play area modernised, with lots of new equipment, including a giant duck climbing frame.

“This came out as top choice for new equipment.

“Users will be able to climb onto it, slide off it, explore climbing ropes inside it.  

“The design is so impressive.

“And top of the list has been making the equipment disability friendly, for people with all sorts of disabilities, including swings, trampoline, seesaw, and sand pit that are designed for wheelchair users to be able to play with their friends.  

“We were really impressed by the way the designers made sure children can play with their friends - not just on one piece of equipment, but across lots of things. 

“I can’t wait to see the finished play area and see what the users think.

“We are going to have to be patient as getting rid of the old stuff and putting in the new, safely, and then getting it signed off by safety inspectors is going to take over two months.”

A spokesperson from the Friends of Kingsgate Park, who works closely with the town council, says the revamp will be worth the wait. 

They said: “Please be aware of this work taking place.

“The wait for it to finish will be worth it.

“The park is used regularly by all ages, from babies being taken in their prams to mums meeting up.

“You will see teenagers using the basketball area, the tree top area is really enjoyed by most children, climbing, walking along the tree top 'path' and using the zip wire."

Yate mayor Cheryl Kirby said: “I am delighted to witness the transformation of the Kingsgate Park MUGA area and the new play equipment for the toddler’s area.

"We’re bringing more fun and community spirit to our beloved park.”

A Yate Town Council spokesperson said: "We thank the public for all their feedback during the consultations, and for their support as we install this exciting new facility at the park. 

"As much as we possibly can, we will ensure there is equipment available for the public to enjoy during their visits."

MP Luke Hall said: "A huge debt of gratitude must be owed to the volunteers and Friends of Kingsgate Park for all their ongoing efforts to make the park such a wonderful place for the local community.

"Personally, I was delighted to have helped secure more Sakura Cherry Blossom Trees for the park, which are expected to be donated in November this year. 

"My thanks again to everyone connected with the park and their amazing work."