A £400,000 play area branded a “danger zone” has reopened after being cordoned off for almost five months following safety concerns.

Ashford Borough Council (ABC) fenced off a section of Central Park in Park Farm - including a seven-foot-high bridge and slide in April.

But now the site has welcomed children once again after a new bridge was installed as a “precautionary measure”.

Dad Andrew Stott had raised concerns over the previous piece of equipment in February and feared children would slip through the "huge gaps".

Posting on their social media page, ABC bosses said they are aware the area took longer to reopen than they had hoped.

“Firstly, thank you to everyone for their patience whilst the piece of play equipment has been closed off, we are aware it has taken longer to reopen than we had hoped,” the post read.

“We are extremely pleased to announce a new bridge has been installed, and the equipment has reopened for everyone to enjoy once again.

“We would like to reassure everyone that closing and replacing this piece of equipment was a precautionary measure. All play equipment when commissioned and prior to opening to the public is thoroughly checked and certified safe.

“As a kind reminder to parents, all children should be appropriately supervised on all equipment according to their age and individual ability.”

Residents have commented on their post saying the equipment has been replaced “just as the kids go back to school”.

“Oh look. Fixed when the kids go back,” one person commented.

Another said: “About time!”

The revamped site opened in November 2022 after authority bosses added new equipment and an outdoor gym.

It was part of a £1.1m play regeneration programme to improve four play areas in the town.