PARKS in Droitwich are among those set to benefit from a £200,000 cash injection from Wychavon District Council.
In the Spa, the iconic Wych Barge in Vines Park will be replaced with a similar structure but one that is more substantial, making it more resistant to vandalism and easier to repair.
Lighting will also be installed to make it stand out in the evening and deter those who are intent on using it inappropriately.
The attraction was vandalised back in August and, after thousands of pounds worth of damage was caused and offensive graffiti was daubed on it, the decision was taken to remove it.
The vandals kicked the wood panelling, leaving holes in it.
The Wych Barge was popular with people who liked to sit there and have picnics or just take time out from their walks.
In the Lido Park, the five-a-side football courts will be resurfaced, new fencing will be installed and the footpaths will also be improved.
In St Peters Fields, the embankment slide will be removed as the timbers supporting it are rotting.
The council is proposing to replace it with either a more modern slide or a different piece of play equipment.
The proposals will be considered by Wychavon’s decision-making Executive Board at a meeting on Wednesday, January 9.
If the plans are approved, the majority of the work will take place between the summer and autumn next year.
The developments will be funded through Section 106 contributions, cash put forward by developers as part of planning agreements, and Wychavon’s capital fund, money earmarked for infrastructure projects and separate to day-to-day spending on services.
Coun Emma Stokes, Wychavon’s executive board member for environment, said: “Our award-winning parks are among the jewels in Wychavon’s crown and if these proposals are approved they will ensure they continue to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages for many years to come.”
Parks in Evesham will also benefit.
