PLAYPARKS in Neyland and Waterston will be given a new lease of life, thanks to a £50,000 boost from the Welsh Government.

The money has been allocated to Pembrokeshire County Council under the Increase Play Opportunities for Children scheme, and will be used to upgrade the two parks, as well as one in Templeton.

Neyland county councillors Paul Miller and Simon Hancock have welcomed the news, saying that both playparks badly need refurbishment.

“I'm absolutely delighted that we've been successful in securing this funding for play areas in Neyland and Waterston,” said Cllr Miller.

“The Neyland facility in particular is in a desperate state.

“The children and young people of Neyland and Waterston deserve first class play facilities and with this funding secured I'm confident they will get them.”

Cllr Hancock said the announcement was fantastic news for Neyland.

“It will make such a difference to the play parks, and the children of the town,” he said.

“As it stands, it’s not a great attraction. We just want to get on with it now!”

Neyland Town Council will match-fund their £25,000 grant, and hopes to complete the work before the end of the summer holidays.

The £25,000 awarded for the Waterston park will be matched through local community fundraising by Llanstadwell Community Council and the Waterston Group, and boosted by a £20,000 donation from Infinergy - owners of the new Weir Point wind turbines.

A spokesman for the community council said they hope work will soon begin on replacing the surfaces and installing a range of brand new play equipment for children of all ages.