Play_Park_Strategy_2021-2030

65 The Council realises the importance of incorporating trees and vegetation where possible into play parks. This is essential to introduce the benefits of the natural world to the well-being of children, in addition to improving biodiversity and the visual impact of play parks. The Council also recognises the importance of maintenance to trees and vegetation and that the careful selection of plants and trees will ensure that maintenance is kept to a minimum and child security is maintained. Inspection records will be centrally held and retained for the required period to demonstrate condition compliance. The Council will ensure that a comprehensive play park inspection process is in place to ensure this occurs. This process will include maintaining a formal maintenance register of all play parks and play equipment along with its location and maintenance and upgrade history, plus a system of actioning maintenance work. These inspections will include fencing, gates, surfacing and equipment along with identification of replacement or upgrade of ageing equipment. Inspections will be undertaken by competent (trained) staff and reported in a timely fashion to ensure an effective maintenance programme which repairs faults quickly. In addition, an independent play park inspection will be undertaken annually at every play park. Inspections will be undertaken on a regular basis to both confirm the condition from a safety perspective and identify any maintenance required. Inspections Trees and vegetation