A CHARD play area is set to receive a “new lease of life” through upgrade works that will start next week.

Following consultation with schools and various youth groups, as well a community-wide survey, Chard Town Council are to make upgrades to Upper Henson Park, near Avishayes Community School.

A spokesperson for the council said: “This will be an exciting facility and great benefit to the local community, which is hope will give the park a new lease of life and see greater levels of use.”

The initial works are due to commence Tuesday, March 7.

The below plan gives a visual of how the park will look following completion.

Once a completion date is confirmed there will be an opening event involving the Mayor, councillors, officers, and the school.

Wicksteed national sales manager, Lynne Egginton, said: “Wicksteed are excited to be involved in the works to Upper Henson Park, following a tendering process and extensive consultation.

“The original design has been adjusted to take into consideration these results including more challenging upper body equipment, such as monkey bars and a climbing wall.

“Mounding and long grasses will be introduced to give social spaces, where girls in particular can socialise, and see without being seen.

“Equipment is aimed primarily at the 8-13 years age group and is set to complement the existing. “We anticipate we will be on-site four to five weeks.”