A £500,000 revamp of Kingston’s play areas is about to begin, as part of a £2million parks and pavements improvement programme.

Alexandra Drive, Blagdon Road, Canbury Gardens, Elm Road, Knollmead, Latchmere, Royal Park Gate and Woodgate Avenue will get new playground equipment and have other environmental work done.

The wider improvement project will include 48 more bins being installed, as well as benches in 14 parks, 10 stretches of pavement being resurfaced and trees planted across the borough.

New footpaths in Athelstan Recreation Ground in Villiers Road, Raeburn Avenue and The Wood in Surbiton have already been completed.

Cllr Phil Doyle, Cabinet Member with responsibility for resident services, said: “The improvements to the borough’s parks and pavements will benefit all our residents, from young children and families to the elderly. New play equipment will encourage children to learn and exercise through play, whilst new footpaths and smoother, resurfaced pavements will provide a safe space for people to walk, run and jog.

“We hope these improvements encourage residents to get outdoors and benefit from the open spaces Kingston has to offer.”

Residents are encouraged to have their say on the proposals, by filling out questionnaires for a council consultation.

This will run until September 15.

To find out more and take part in the consultation visit kingston.gov.uk/parksandpavements.