PLANS to build new play areas for young people and reopen five other playgrounds have been given the go-ahead.

Members of Wycombe District Council's community and leisure committee gave the thumbs up to a £330,000 work programme to install the new playgrounds as well as refurbishing the most well-used play areas.

The move comes after a survey carried out in 1998 revealed that the provision of safe play areas was the most important issue the council should address.

The council has already provided 44 play areas but some have been vandalised. It will now provide a further three, in Wiltshire Road, Marlow, Princes Risborough and West Wycombe.

Cllr Julia Langley (Con, Flackwell Heath), chairman of the community and leisure committee, said: "It's absolutely wonderful news.

"This money will mean all the difference to these young people, providing them with a safe and enjoyable playing area in which to spend their own time."

She added: "It's a real shame when a mindless few can spoil it for those who truly appreciate these areas.

"I do hope we don't see the same level of disrespect for property as we've seen in some cases."

The play areas which will be reopened are at Holmers Farm, The Pastures and Hillary Road in High Wycombe. Those at Shelley Road and Newfield Gardens, in Marlow, will also reopen.

Play areas at Baring Road, Forest Way, Bowerdean Rec, Desborough Rec and Roundwood Rec in High Wycombe will have equipment replaced, and playgrounds at Higginson Park, Marlow and The Pines, Tylers Green, will also be refurbished.