MAJOR plans to invest in play areas in Christchurch have left a ward councillor "very disappointed" that her residents will not see any improvements.

The £1.2m legacy proposals were approved at a full council meeting, but North Highcliffe and Walkford ward councillor Sally Derham Wilkes said she could not support the scheme.

She told members her ward currently has one "very small underused" play area, which is not featured in the renovation plans.

Councillor Derham Wilkes said: "When I heard about this project and the principle that was involved I was very happy to think we as councillors were going to be leaving a legacy for the young people of Christchurch right across our borough. "When I read the report I was very disappointed to see the ward Cllr Nick Geary and myself represent, North Highcliffe and Walkford, is completely left out of this.

"I thought this was going to be something that would cover the whole of the borough, and North Highcliffe and Walkford are part of the borough of Christchurch."

The approved plans will introduce seven new facilities, refurbish a further eight, but remove 11 sites across the borough.

Other councillors admitted their sympathy for North Highcliffe and Walkford councillors, however the proposals were backed by everyone other than Cllr Geary and Cllr Derham Wilkes

"I'm very disappointed, yet again, the one thing in all the years I have been a councillor in that area I have been repeatedly asked for is a play area," Cllr Derham Wilkes added.

"The parents and children asked for it, we've had petitions over the years asking for it, we've had requests all the time, but still our ward is going to be left without anything whatsoever."

Councillor Claire Bath said it was a "great shame" the ward had been excluded and put forward an amendment for officers to look at the situation in North Highcliffe and Walkford again.

Judith Plumley, head of community and leisure, said officers have looked at sites for many years and any brand new play area included in the project would require a consultation, which would delay the overall delivery.

The amendment was narrowly rejected by 11 votes to 10.

Councillor Margaret Phipps said: "I think this is great for a wide initiative. I'm sorry there is one ward that appears to be excluded, but I think officers have looked at that and will continue to do so.

"We have to look at this whole thing in the round. It is absolutely clear there are many current play sites across this borough that are in a very poor state of repair.

"This project will revitalise play for children across Christchurch. There will be improved facilities and new facilities, bigger and better. This has got to be good news."