FAMILIES can now enjoy a new slide, swing, and zip line after a playground underwent a £150,000 facelift.

The playground, in Wickford Memorial Park, in Rettendon View, Wickford is undergoing a huge regeneration. Basildon Council is investing a total of £1million into refurbishing the pavilion, restoring the memorial area and sprucing up walkways.

In the May 2016 budget, the Conservative administration set aside £150,000 to completely renew the play equipment at the park.

The contract was put out to tender a year ago, and now the new and improved playground has opened up to the public.

Children are already flocking to the attraction in large numbers to enjoy the slide, swing, zip line and other features.

Peter Holliman, Conservative councillor for Wickford North ward, said: “As part of the Conservative administration the Wickford Conservative councillors made a bid for the money to be put into the budget.

“Having seen the works completed and the final finished scheme we are extremely pleased to have been able to make this dream a reality on behalf of the community.

I think judging by the reception the new facility has received, it is looking like an overwhelming success.”

Phil Turner, leader of Basildon Council’s Tory group, said the park transformation is the latest in a long line of improvements to Wickford.

He said: “Wickford has for a long time been a priority for the conservative administration.

“The Conservative have been behind many projects over the years including the £2million overhaul of the new fitness suite and swimming pool, £2million for the new surgery in Market Road, £500,000 for the new toilets and pavilion in the Memorial Park, and close to £1million investment to the High Street for the market, new paving, shops refurbishment and new toilet facilities.

“Now we are fighting to get better car parking facilities in our main car park, regenerate the carpark and shops in Station Road and to keep free parking at weekends and public holidays .”

The former market was moved from its home in Market Road, Wickford, to the High Street to make way for a new health centre, which will replace the London Road Surgery.