Locals have hit out at the council’s decision to almost halve the number of playparks in North Ayrshire to save £50,000.

The decision to reduce the park provision from 106 to 60 in 2017/18 was taken by the council last week. The council have since raised the possibility of some parks being taken over by local communities.

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “We are currently reviewing the level of play park provision, as well as the condition and range of play equipment across the area.

“Our aim is to provide a smaller number of strategically placed, well equipped facilities. Options such as community asset transfer will also be examined”.

On-line reaction to the decision has been firmly opposed to cutting the facilities.

Reader Jamie Bryceland said: “Great news! Now even less for kids to do in winter. We’ll all just stay in.” Others raised their concerns that small towns could suffer most.

Tricia Daisley said: “Oh here we go.....watch out Skelmorlie.” Meanwhile, Alex Nisbet said there was a simple solution. “I have a great idea...its pretty radical though. Stop freezing council tax.”