Rusty see-saws, broken swings and dangerous monkey bars on a Government-owned field will be replaced through the efforts of UBP Warwick North Central candidate, Wayne Scott.

Last week, he revealed plans for new equipment on the field behind St. Mary’s Church in Warwick which, once complete, is expected to cost $80,000.

Mr. Scott said during his canvassing over the past two years, he was repeatedly asked to improve the playground which is derelict from lack of upkeep.

“During the course of my canvassing, many people asked for help in upgrading the facility because it had fallen into disrepair,” he said. “I listened and saw an opportunity to maintain a small but meaningful component of community life.

“Many have fond memories of playing there as children and of taking their own children there. I’m part of it because I too took my own children there in the early 1990s.

“Unfortunately the playground is now virtually derelict and the rusted equipment is of no interest to young children as well as being dangerous.”

Though the total cost of the project is estimated at $80,000, 100 percent of it was funded through donations from people in the Warwick area and Mr. Scott hopes to include the youth from the community to help construct it.

Before building can begin, however, approval from the Warwick Parish Council will be necessary and a letter requesting support has been sent. According to Mr. Scott, the chairman of the council has already indicated the playground would be approved.

The play structure will be made entirely of recycled material from the same manufacturer for equipment installed at the Government and Private schools by the Parks Department.

Playing on the rusty equipment last week, seven-year-old Bella Greene and six-year-old Jahkriah Robinson said they were both excited about the new playground.

“Next time I want to see the see-saw have ten seats,” added Bella.