Medway Council has secured more than £1 million of government money to create, improve and refurbish children’s play areas.

It has been awarded as part of the Wave 2 Playbuilder status, which the council will adopt in 2009.

The money will be used to develop a minimum of 22 play areas, with a focus on eight to 13-year-olds and ensuring play areas have better disabled access.

The money means that Medway Council will be able to provide safe, accessible and exciting play opportunities for all children. Outdoor play has many benefits and is key to a happy and enjoyable childhood.

Medway Council's portfolio holder for community services, Cllr Howard Doe said: “We are thrilled at the news of this funding and it is great news for all Medway residents.

"We take play very seriously because we understand the importance of it for all children.

"It is now our priority to start working on developing the proposals for each individual site.”

The first seven Medway areas have already been identified and will have £400,000 spent on them.

The sites are Borstal Recreation Ground, Capstone Park Lower, Crest Way Play Area, Darnley Road Play Area, Grange Road Cemetery, Rainham Recreation Ground and Rookery Fields Play Area.