A POPULAR play project under threat of closure this summer has been saved for another year after receiving a council grant of almost �10,000.

Councillors on North Herts District Council’s (NHDC) Letchworth area committee have agreed to give �9,300 to the scheme based at the town’s Icknield Infant School, to ensure its future for the next 12 months.

The grant comes after previous funding from the Big Lottery Children’s Play Programme and the Letchworth Extended Schools Consortia was pulled and other attempts to finance the programme have failed.

Up to 40 children aged four to seven come along to the play project in Archer Way one night a week where they are able to play freely and enjoy different activities put on by staff.

Hitchin’s The Westmill Play Project has also received funding to remain open, although the future of the town’s Purwell Stay and Play Project is still in doubt.

NHDC has run the Community Play Programme since 2007 both towns, as well as Royston.

Cllr Michael Paterson, Chairman of Letchworth area committee, said: “The Community Play Programme gives children the chance to learn through play and enjoy some of the freedom that young people used to have.

“Children who struggle with the structure of school often thrive at the play schemes. They learn to work with others and solve practical problems, helping them grow in confidence.

“The committee members felt strongly that we should support this wonderful project and we hope that further funding will be found for the following year.”

For details of the scheme call 01462 474457 or email play@north-herts.gov.uk