A popular pirate-themed play area will close again for an upgrade.

Buccaneer Bay, in Central Park, Dartford has proved hugely popular since opening in March last year.

The £1.2m park covers two-and-a-half acres and has been extended to include an enclosed space for families and a picnic area – making it among the biggest of its kind in the UK.

However, the attraction has previously been the target of mindless vandalism and was forced to shut temporarily just four months after opening following complaints about maintenance problems.

It will shut again on Monday to undergo an upgrade to ensure everyone is able to enjoy the facilities.

In an update posted online, Leader of Dartford Council Jeremy Kite said: “Buccaneer Bay has been such a huge success, but the one area where we knew we could improve was the access for little pirates with particular play needs.

“The installation of a fully accessible swing and other equipment will put that right, and we’ll be ready to set sail again next weekend.

“We’re sorry for the brief closure, but it is safer for everyone if we close whilst we install the new equipment.”

Buccaneer Bay is due to reopen on Saturday January 27.