A 'natural play' area is to open for the first time in Orkney on 9 July.

The new Summerdale Park is the first of its kind in the region.

Phillips and Green Building Services designed and built the facility.

Sam Green, a partner with Phillips and Green Building Services, said: "It was a massive re-landscaping project. We completely excavated the existing site, bringing in 200 tonnes of sandy soil to create a new topography for the area.

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"Rocky outcrops, a sheltered amphitheatre including a built-in rock seating and a barbecue area, interlinking slopes and valleys and a woven willow tunnel are a few of the features that have been incorporated into the space.

"There’s even a slope for sledging in the winter to promote the use of the park all year round."

Local materials such as 'Orkney stone' were also incorporated in to the development

The park has been developed as part of 'Orkneys Play Strategy', which was approved last year by the council.

Councillor Harvey Johnston said: "Summerdale Park offers a combination of both traditional play equipment and natural landscapes, giving young children a safe outdoor play area to enjoy, while children of all ages can utilise the natural surroundings of valleys, trees and wild spaces."

The park opening will take place on 9 July at 11am.

(LM)