An Isle of Wight playground, left without a slide since last year, could soon have a 'suitable replacement', the Isle of Wight Council has said.

But first, town councillors need to decide whether to fork out thousands of pounds to help fund it.

The activity unit at Big Mead playground, Shanklin, was removed in June 2023 over 'safety concerns'.

What has been left behind is an empty piece of tarmac where it once stood.

The council, which is responsible for the playground, has told the County Press it is working with Shanklin Town Council, to replace the unit.

At a meeting on Thursday (25), town councillors are due to discuss putting more than £8,000 towards new play equipment.

The playground's seesaw also appears to have been bent. 

Isle of Wight County Press: The seesaw at Big Mead Playground.The seesaw at Big Mead Playground. (Image: IWCP)

The Isle of Wight Council said "it has been subject to vandalism, but it is still safe and usable."

A spokesperson said: "We will continue to monitor and take necessary action if required."

They added: “The council regularly inspects the play equipment in all its sponsored playgrounds on the Island.

"Our Environment Officers ensure that the play equipment is safe and functional. If any equipment is found to be unsafe, we either remove it or restrict access to it for safety reasons."