Lagonda Way Dartford volunteer upset by overgrown playground

According to the resident, the playground in Lagonda Way is used by those who live on the road as well as others from nearby roads and local primary schools.

He said it has become “overgrown” and “unkept”, making it difficult for people to use.

Dartford volunteer fed up with overgrown playground in Laguna Way in Dartford (Image: Anon)

The man, who wishes to remain anonymous, says the overgrown grass and bushes are deterring parents from taking their children in the park due to the lack of seating and the potential risk of waste being concealed in the overgrown areas.

He explained: “There could be dog mess in the grass, you don't know what could be in there.

“People are worried about their kids putting their hands down in it.

“Parents want to be able to sit down on the grass area, but right now they can’t because it’s too overgrown.”

The man described the playground as looking “abandoned” and “deserted.”

He added: “This has been going on for a good few years now, I see the playground every day and it just looks like it’s been abandoned or deserted

“It just looks an eyesore and people are not using it, children are not using it, because the parents don't want them running in the grass, because they're worried what's in it.”

The man said that neighbours and parents who use the playground have made complaints to Dartford Council over the ongoing condition of the playground.

However, he said it is still “not being maintained.”

He told the News Shopper: “I made complaints, my neighbour contacted the council and made complaints, and other people that live near the park have made complaints.

“It corrects itself for one or two months.

“People come around every couple of months to cut it, but then it’s like it for four months all over again.

“The grass grows really quick, because of the weather.

“So in reality it should be cut once a month, and the bushes around the outside.”

Have you got a story for us? You can contact us here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

Sign up to our newsletters to get updates sent straight to your inbox.

A spokesperson for Dartford Council has said that recent weather had contributed to the problem and that their teams are working to keep up with their maintenance schedule. A Dartford Borough Council spokesperson said:

“Recent weather has made growing conditions perfect for grass and bushes, not only in Dartford, but around Kent.

“Our teams are working hard to keep up with the cutting schedule and we’re looking at what improvements we can make to our approach.

“We’re grateful for residents’ patience during this time whilst we get back on track.”