PARENTS in Malvern have called out the lack of suitable play equipment for young children in parks in the area.

The complaints have come after  the town council removed some equipment from the play area in Victoria Park, near Worcester Road in Malvern.

This is due to construction of a new community hub on the site which is set to be completed in July.

A climbing frame and swings were the main equipment to be removed from the park, which Malvern Town Council said won't be replaced until refurbishment of the play area is undertaken in 2025/2026.

Parents have also criticised the limited amount of parks that have suitable equipment for children of three and under in the Malvern area.

Worcester News: Work began on site in early February and is due to be completed by July 2024Work began on site in early February and is due to be completed by July 2024 (Image: Newsquest)

One parent claimed they had got in touch with the council about the issue but had not had a response, adding they were "incredibly disappointed" that the equipment from Victoria Park was no longer available.

"All of the items removed were for younger kids," they said.

"This used to offer a safe and healthy environment for younger children to play together."

Another parent said while they were not a regular visitor of Victoria park, it was "annoying" and a "shame" that the equipment had been taken away.

Rachel Lancett, manager at London House Cafe near Victoria Park, said there had been a "lot of complaints on Facebook" by parents.

"There was also a cafe there previously that had public toilets and changing rooms that people used frequently, but that is obviously no longer there."

London House Cafe owner, John Clark, said many people were under the impression that it was a short-term problem that wouldn't have long-term ramifications.

"Parents say that it is frustrating but that at least it is coming back," he said.

Linda Blake, town clerk for Malvern Town Council, said: "The big thing is this is a large construction.

"Some play equipment has been moved because it had reached the end of its useful life and was adjacent to the park where the works are taking place.

"So this was also done for safety reasons but there are plans in place to restore the equipment.

"We are just ask for people to bear with us."

Mrs Blake stressed the removal of some equipment was temporary and that a complete refurbishment was due in the longer term.

"We have noted peoples complaints and we will be addressing those.

"There is noticeably less equipment than usual but there will be new toddler swings and springers installed."