A children’s play park which was set on fire last Christmas is to be rebuilt.

Beachfields Sandpit in Sheerness was engulfed in a huge inferno on December 19 after it was targeted by vandals.

The park's castle, which ended up being destroyed with only its metal framework remaining, faced an uncertain future with the £50,000 structure having to be removed entirely, with diggers and workmen also binning large amounts of debris nearby.

Now, efforts by both Swale and Sheerness Town Council to get a replacement park are now underway.

Following talks, both agreed to replace the unit with the latter confirming they will match funds for the project.

Residents are now being asked to have their say on two ideas for the play site.

Option one, named the Man O’War unit, will provide a large structure for about 50 users for children aged four and above, plus additional space for parents and guardians to socialise.

It would allow those with mobility limitations to participate in low-level activities, as well as having a track ride option for older users.

The proposition will also ensure the castle’s metal framework is corrosion-resistant, with its also panels resistant to vandalism and graffiti.

The council’s second proposal will involve the construction of two medium and one small unit for about 45 users aged three and above.

While option two, ‘The Shipwreck’, will also allow kids with mobility limitations to participate, with the added excitement of a pendulum nest swing being built.

This design has been created to highlight the theme of the Montgomery warship – a cargo ship built during the Second World War which was wrecked near the Island’s coast back in August 1944.

It will have the same framework construction as the first proposal, but will also be resistant to fire.

People wishing to vote on the two designs can do so here.

The consultation will end on May 15.

Swale council has been approached for comment regarding the cost of the two proposals.