An independent inspection of all 48 council‑run play areas found 16 sites in the worst two categories, with equipment described as “generally poor” or “end of life”. Councillors were told that without investment, some of the playgrounds would have to close.
The findings prompted Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet to approve a £2.5 million, three‑year programme to replace or repair the sites.
From climbing frames to closure risk
The inspection, carried out by the Play Inspection Company, graded each playground from “new” to “end of life”. While many were found to be in good condition, others were described as requiring full refurbishment.
Among those in the worst shape are Aberavon Toddler Play Area, Grahams Terrace and Jersey Park, all placed in Group 4 — older sites where most of the equipment is in poor condition. A further five sites, including Sunny Crescent, Victoria Park and Vivian Park, were classed as Group 5 — at the end of their life and in need of complete replacement.
Eight more, such as Baglan Park, Bryn Park and Pen y Dre in Neath, were flagged as ageing with significant repair needs.
Refurbished yesterday, condemned today
What will surprise many residents is that some of the playgrounds now deemed “poor” have only recently been refurbished. Vivian Park in Sandfields, for example, had upgrades in 2019 and again in 2022, yet inspectors now say the site is at the end of its life. Victoria Gardens in Neath town centre also received a £22,000 upgrade in 2023, but still appears in the council’s list of sites needing urgent work.
The findings raise questions about the durability of past refurbishments and whether some upgrades were only partial, leaving equipment still vulnerable to wear and tear.
“We cannot allow closures”
Cllr Simon Knoyle, cabinet member for finance, said the council had little choice but to act:
“These 16 playgrounds require significant repair or full refurbishment in the next 12 to 36 months. Without investment, these facilities risk closure on safety grounds — this is simply something we cannot allow to happen.”
Cllr Scott Jones, who oversees streetscene services, said the programme was about more than just new swings and slides:
“Playgrounds are essential community resources. This programme will make sure families have safe, modern places for children to play.”
What families can expect
The £2.5m programme will be rolled out over three years, with the worst‑affected sites prioritised first. The decision is subject to a short call‑in period before contracts can be awarded.
For families, it means some playgrounds could be fenced off while work takes place — but the council insists the long‑term result will be safer, modern play areas across the county.
