Council looks at play space plan

The survey found a shortage of equipped children's play areas

A shortage of playing fields and playgrounds is highlighted by a survey for a council which is being asked to increase its open spaces.

Wrexham council found a deficit of children's equipped playgrounds in 33 of its 35 community council areas.

There is also a shortage of playing fields in 31 areas as well as a shortfall of outdoor sport facilities in all community council areas.

A report recommends six acres (2.4hec) of open space per 1,000 people.

The standard is recommended by Fields in Trust (FiT) formerly the National Playing Fields Association.

The council's chief planning officer report states: "Public open space (POS) can make an important contribution to people's quality of life by providing opportunities for recreation, physical activity and healthy living and by enhancing the visual character of a community by being a "green lung" in built-up areas."

The report also calls for the possible allocation of a number of small areas of land presently used for informal open space for 100% affordable housing.

Nineteen of Wrexham's 35 community councils responded to the request to participate in survey.