Children can now enjoy two new playgrounds in Croydon, one at Canterbury Road and the other at Whitehorse Road Recreation Grounds.

The playgrounds were officially opened by Croydon Council, as part of the Croydon regeneration scheme and a series of investments to improve the borough’s parks.

Executive mayor Jason Perry and cabinet member for streets and environment, Councillor Scott Roche, inspected the parks.

They were joined by local mum Emily Frost and her son Newton, aged three, who helped with the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Whitehorse Recreation Ground.

The playgrounds in Broad Green and Selhurst cost around £120,000 each to build and include wheelchair-friendly and sensory equipment.

As part of the Playground Investment Programme, they are being funded through Section 106 obligations, where the council receives money from developers for local infrastructure.

The playgrounds were developed following engagement with the community and through working collaboratively with the local Friends of Parks groups.

They replaced two nearby playgrounds which have reached the end of their operational lives.

Materials from the old playgrounds will be reused or recycled where possible.

Jason Perry, executive mayor of Croydon, said: “The two new playgrounds are part of a series of investments in our greenspaces to encourage more residents to be active and enjoy the wonderful outdoor spaces in the borough.

“It is so important to offer well-equipped play spaces for our young people to enjoy.

"These playgrounds are fantastic assets where our children and young people can thrive and grow.

“We are committed to finding ways to ensure continued investment in our parks so that residents can enjoy and get the most out of their local parks as we restore pride in these precious places.”