PLANS have been unveiled for a new £342,000 play area, complete with 10-metre-high tower, at Harestanes Country Park, near Jedburgh.

The outdoor facility is being redeveloped as part of £3.1 million, four-year make over of the region’s play parks which is being undertaken by Scottish Borders Council.

The plans have been submitted to Scottish Borders Council’s planning department, and barring a refusal, the park is expected to be open for spring 2019.

Northamptonshire-based Wicksteed Lesiure have been designing playparks for over a century. In a design statement, submitted to the local authority, a spokesperson wrote: “Our design proposal for the new play area is unique to Harestanes Country Park and has been inspired by the natural beauty of not only the park itself but also the town of Jedburgh and its rich history.

“We have combined a wide variety of innovative, durable play equipment with bespoke features such as the all-inclusive sensory boardwalk and the ever imposing ‘Jedburgh Abbey’ and pyramid tower centrepiece.

“Fusing all these elements with multi-sensory textures, landscaped features and durable wet pour safety surfacing, we have delivered a challenging, imaginative and educational play space that can be accessed and enjoyed by children of all ages and abilities for many years to come.”

The park will also feature a quiet zone and storytelling area, a small amphitheatre, an agility trail and a toddler play garden.

A Scottish Borders Council spokesperson said: “In May 2018, councillors agreed to spend £3.1 million over the next four years in new play parks, skate park and pump tracks, and other outdoor community facilities.

“An upgraded play park for Harestanes visitor centre was included in the investment, with a £342,000 facility to be created which will enhance the experience for families.”