Children in three Glasgow primary schools are head-over-heels at the launch of a new playground.

Youngsters from Anderston Primary, St Patrick’s RC Primary and the Glasgow Gaelic School were the first to try out the new multi-purpose games court and play area at Dover Street in Charing Cross.

The outdoor gym allows park users to do sit ups, use the cross trainer and leg and chest presses. Sports such as football, hockey, basketball and netball can be played on the synthetic games surface.

It is the 57th play area to be built since 2005 as part of the Play Area Improvement Programme – which is a partnership between Glasgow Housing Association and Glasgow City Council. Additional funding for this project was provided by The Central and West Community Planning Partnership.

Primary pupils Alistair Campbell, 10, from Anderston Primary joined Sileas Nicgriogair, 8, from the Glasgow Gaelic School and Elisha Lal, 5, from St Patrick’s RC school to cut the ribbon at the launch.

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GHA’s West Area Director Jacqueline Norwood said: “Our partnership with the council to build play parks has brought a real boost to dozens of communities over the past six years.

“Children can play safely and keep fit at the same time. The play areas are also a great way for the youngsters and parents from different backgrounds and cultures to mix.”

Local Councillor Philip Braat, who instigated this project, said: “I fought long and hard to get this play area off the ground. I am absolutely delighted with what we have here today. This play area is a wonderful illustration of how a community working together can secure significant improvements and create a community space which is tailored to their needs.

“Everyone involved in this project should be very proud of what they have achieved and in making Dover Street/Kent Road greenspace what it is today – a fantastic resource for the community to enjoy for many years to come.”

The children were entertained by Bubbles the clown and a football session put on by A&M Training, a project part funded by GHA which tackles youth disorder, racism and gang violence through football and dance classes.

Councillor Jim Coleman, Glasgow City Council's Executive Member for Land and Environmental Services, said: “This is a great new local amenity for the area and another example of the council's commitment to bring new and improved parks and open spaces to local communities.”

The new facility also supports the city’s Healthier & Safer Play Areas initiative which aims to make children’s playgrounds alcohol and smoke free by 2014.

(GK)