FAMILIES will get to enjoy picnics, playtime and outdoor fun at a new playground development in Elms Field park in Wokingham.

The new play area has opened in time for the Summer holidays and families were invited to watch the Wokingham Borough Mayor Councillor Bill Soane cut the ribbon on Thursday, July 18.

Wokingham Town Council will be managing the new open space on a 50-year lease.

Councillor Nick Campbell-White, chairman of Wokingham Town Council's amenities committee, said: "I am absolutely delighted the new park is ready.

"This is a destination park offering exciting and different opportunities within the town centre itself." The playground equipment is made from sustainably sourced Robinia wood which gives the park a natural feel and established the natural surroundings of Elms, English Oaks, Birches and Maples.

Shrubs and wild flowers have been planted to attract wildlife.

Councillor Charlotte Haitham Taylor, executive member for regeneration at WBC, said: “We expect it to become one of the most popular parks in the town.

"It has lots of space for relaxing, as well as playing and hosting events throughout the year. The past few months have seen many parts of the regeneration coming to fruition, with Market Place finished, Peach Place and Aldi opened, and more retailers and businesses announced.

"I am incredible excited Elms Field is open, ready for the summer."

The park has also been fitted with general waste and dog waste bins, as well as additional recycling bins to be installed in the upcoming weeks.