Equipment is being removed from the children’s park in Aycliffe, leaving the area without a play area.

Dover District Council is dismantling the playing apparatus because it is “too old” and says it could become dangerous to those using it.

Amy Shilson, of St David’s Avenue, said: “[I am] disappointed with this town’s council.

“Aycliffe now has no play area and no plans for a new one.” - Amy Shilson

"Aycliffe now has no play area and no plans for a new one."

Aaron Baker, of Old Folkestone Road, added: “It’s stupid. Where do the council expect the kids to play or go and [still] be safe?”

“I lived at Aycliffe all my life and there were two parks and it brought the kids together and out of the house.

“Now there is no park at all so the kids will stay indoors and not get out in the fresh air.

“[It is] is a shame – the parks were the heart of the estate for the kids.”

Dennis Mitchell, also of St David’s Avenue, added: “When the A20 was built we lost playing fields by the Ropewalk and on the site of the new school where there was also a play park.

“They have never been replaced and where other areas in the town have had a multi-sport court ours is the smallest and in disrepair covered in rust.

“Now we lose the only play area.

“Facilities for children should always come first.”

“They were very quiet about [this] as no one seemed to know it was going to happen.”

A DDC spokesman said: “We can confirm that we are removing old play equipment from the Ropewalk area.

“Public safety is of course of primary importance, and it is necessary to remove this equipment as it has reached the end of its useful life.

“We have been working with the local community to explore options for future provision, including looking into the best location for a play area for Aycliffe residents.”

He added: “There was a meeting with the local community in February, which fully explained the situation, and we continue to look at options for the future.”