PARENTS whose children live in tower blocks have appealed to Bexley Council to provide somewhere safe for their children to play.

Ayodeji Akande, chairman of Riverside Residents’ Association in Erith, led a deputation to last week’s council meeting, on behalf of the families living in two tower blocks and two low-rise blocks of flats in Saltford Close, Erith.

He told councillors there were now more than 40 children living on the estate with nowhere to play.

Mr Akande said although the estate was opposite the Riverside Gardens, parents did not feel happy letting their children play there.

He explained: “There are a number of people using the gardens who drink and who harass the children.

“People also walk dogs there and play football. You cannot control who goes in and out.”

Mr Akande said, as a result, parents struggled to let their children go outside to play.

With nowhere else to go, he said children were now playing in the lobby areas and stairwells of the flats, in the bin areas and the car park.

He told councillors other residents were starting to complain about the children’s activities which were causing a disturbance.

Councillors heard parents were trying their best by organising events for the children such as games and trips out.

One trip to Chessington World of Adventure had attracted more than 60 residents and was over-subscribed.

But Mr Akande said what was needed was a small secure play area with some swings, a slide and roundabout, with secure access, where the children could play without disturbing other residents and where parents could keep an eye on them.

The residents’ request has now been referred to the relevant council committee for consideration.