A new play area is set to brighten up Stevenage town centre.

Work – which is expected to last 16 weeks – began this week on the building of the play area in Market Place, which will include climbing equipment, slides and see-saws.

New outdoor seats, trees and plants are also being installed.

John Gardener, who is responsible for regeneration and environment at Stevenage Borough Council said: “Market Place work is a really lovely scheme to give families somewhere central for children to play and let their imaginations run free, as well as making a nice place to sit and enjoy our town centre.”

The play area is part of ongoing regeneration work across the town centre, which has seen the refurbishment of the fountain and pool in Town Square this summer.

Early next year the first phase of a larger-scale regeneration by developers Mace will begin – with the library, Town Square and bus station areas turned into new shops, housing, retaurants, bars, health facilities and more.

“We’re committed to making the town centre look good so people can start to see a difference before our major regeneration plans get underway next year,” said Mr Gardener.

“With new homes being completed in Park Place and new shops opening this summer, we’re already providing some of the things people ask us for.

“I look forward to larger-scale regeneration to develop a modern and welcoming town centre where people live, work and play.”