The park in Barrs Brae, behind Moray Road, is taking shape and due to be completed next month.

Ward councillor James McColgan is delighted that the project, first approved in 2013, is finally coming to fruition.

Councillor McColgan said: “I think it’s important that young people get access to high quality outdoor play facilities to allow them to have fun and exercise in a safe environment.

“It is now standard practice that children get at least two hours of physical education per week at school and the investment in outdoor play facilities provides even more opportunities for physical activity.” The new play area will have a double swing with baby seat, a bird’s nest swing, a forest giraffe climbing frame, slide and a climbing boulder arch plus a springy elephant.

Cllr McColgan said: “The play park at Boglestone has been a huge success and this new play park on Barrs Brae is a great addition to play facilities in Port Glasgow.

“I am pleased to be getting investment in this area and it is part of a bigger £200,000 to increase play facilities across the district.” The councillor believes that the community will make good use of the new facility.

He told the Tele: “It is something that is needed in the area and it will provide good play facilities for families in Devol, Dougliehill and Whitecroft.” The playpark is part of a wider investment into recreational facilities in the area. The environment and regeneration committee approved a play area investment budget of £300,000 which includes three new parks, with the other sites at Braeside in Greenock and Trumpethill in Gourock.