YOUNGSTERS shared their views about the future of a new play area at Barrow Green in Chippenham.

Plans for the play area were examined by the people who really matter the children who will be using it.

The play area finally got the go-ahead recently after delays caused by funding difficulties, as local authorities could not agree on who should provide the ongoing maintenance costs.

Last week's consultation exercise by staff from Westlea Housing Association one of the partners in the project along with Chippenham Town Council, North Wiltshire District Council and Knightstone Housing Association - took place on the green where the playground will be created.

Sue Howlett, Tenant Services Officer at Westlea, said: "We took along five different design options from four manufacturers and residents were invited to choose their preferred scheme."

Response slips were available and people were asked to record a vote for their favourite scheme.

"We were really pleased with the interest this created we had 54 responses, mainly from children under 12," said Mrs Howlett.

"The design the children preferred the most included two sets of swings for toddlers and older children, a springer, a multi-play feature and a roundabout, as well as a picnic bench and litter bin."

Westlea will meet the other partners in the project to consider the responses and agree a final design for the new play area next week.

It is hoped the new equipment can be installed by late summer.

"We are glad to have had the support of Marian Stickland, a local tenant and recently elected town councillor," said Sue Howlett.

"She was at the consultation this week and was talking to residents about getting a residents' association together.

"Starting a group like this would really help local people identify their priorities for improvement in the neighbourhood and get access to funding to address these issues."

Local people interested in being involved in a residents' association can contact Sue Howlett at Westlea for more information on (01249) 466150.