DALLAM THIS land was once filled with derelict garages, leaving the area around Massey Avenue in Dallam looking barren and an anti-social behaviour hotspot.

But now it has been transformed into a toddlers play area which was unveiled to youngsters last week – three years after the idea for the redevelopment first started.

In 2006 residents were given the chance to have their say on what they wanted from the area and the community decided on a play area for children.

The development was helped with funding from Golden Gates Housing and a grant from the Waste Recycling Group Ltd, administered by WREN.

Richard Smith, from WREN, said: “We are really pleased that the works at Massey Avenue are complete and hope that the new play area is used and enjoyed by the children of Dallam for many years to come.”

After the design was approved the work was carried out by Groundwork Merseyside’s landscape architects team.

Derek Robertson, chief executive of Groundwork Merseyside, said: “This scheme is an excellent illustration of how partners can work together effectively to make environmental improvements for social benefit.”

Youngsters from across the estate joined in to mark the official opening with a wide range of fun activities.

Kelly Abbott, from Golden Gate Housing, added: “The area looks fantastic. I’m really pleased with the outcome. It’s taken a lot of hard work and determination but we’ve finally got there. All who have been involved in the project have worked really hard – it just shows what working partnerships can achieve. I just hope the children like it.”