A play area and green space has opened to the public in Bitterne Precinct after works that were scheduled to take 12 weeks took seven months.

The initiative led by Southampton City Council has seen an old play area transformed into a more modern play park, with new seating and exercise spaces, as well as newly planted trees and shrubs.

The opening of the play area was delayed by four months after work halted on the project due to “issues around material lead times.”

Bitterne resident, Perry McMillan, welcomed the additions to the newly transformed precinct but said the delay had been a “missed opportunity.”

Speaking to the Echo, he said: “All of the fencing was removed on Wednesday morning and straight away children were making use of the slide and wanting to explore the area.

“People are really enjoying themselves and it’s great to see. The precinct looks a lot better and I’m sure it’s good for the environment.

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“I just think when the council came up with the scheme and then it was delayed, was enough thought given to the fact young children would be walking past it each day, because it was heartbreaking to see they weren’t able to use it.

“We’re more than halfway through the Easter holidays now so perhaps the opening was a bit of a missed opportunity, but it’s lovely to see the space is being used already.”

Commenting of the opening of the play area, Cllr Eamonn Keogh, cabinet member for environment and transport, said it was a “great addition” to the area.

He said: “This is a great addition to our precinct in Bitterne and is being very favourably received by children and families already.

“Special thanks to the teams that have designed and delivered the new play area.

“This is the beginning of Labour's commitment and recognition to upgrade our district centres."

In a statement, Cllr John Savage, cabinet member for green city and net zero, previously said: “Our aim with this innovative urban green space project is to develop a versatile area that serves both residents and visitors.

“Through the thoughtful design of play areas, we seek to establish a space that appeals to people of all ages, encouraging outdoor activities and relaxation.”