The play area at Quarry Moor Park, which was closed in September because of rat infestation, could reopen in time for the Easter holidays.
The Ripon City Council-owned and operated playground shut after discarded food items attracted rodents.
Since then the council has tried to eradicate the rats. It has also removed a waste bin and put up a sign at the entrance to the adjacent Quarry Moor Nature Reserve, and park, asking visitors to take rubbish home.
City council leader Andrew Williams told the Stray Ferret:
“Earlier this week, we appointed contractors to carry out the necessary refurbishment work and cleaning ahead of reopening.
“It is our hope that this can be achieved in time for the Easter holiday, but that will be reliant upon all equipment passing rigorous hygiene and safety checks, as the wellbeing of children playing there is of paramount importance.”
This sign was put in place after rat infestation caused the closure of the playground.
Longer-term plans for the playground include replacement of the play equipment and erection of new fencing.
A total of £70,000 from the Ripon parish precept has been set aside for this work and the city council is seeking additional sources of funding, before it proceeds with the refurbishment programme.
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Quarry Moor Park
The park, just off the A61 on the southern approach to Ripon, was created on land donated to the city by Alderman Thomas Fowler Spence in 1945.
He served as the mayor of Ripon between 1927 and 1929 and was managing director of varnish manufacturer T and R Williamson — a prominent employer in the city since the 18th century.
Alderman Spence donated the 24-acre site on the understanding that it would “be kept for Ripon children for all time”.
It has been held in trust ever since, becoming one of the city’s most valued attractions.
In recognition of its unique geology and rare species-rich magnesian limestone grassland, Quarry Moor was designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1986 and is now managed for both nature conservation and recreation.