Tensions are running high in Noel Park, as demands are made for Labour-run Haringey Council to put pressure on its contractors to complete repair works on the basketball court and play area at the Noel Park Recreation Ground.

The children’s playground was removed two years ago when the new play centre was built and has never been replaced. Work began on the site at the beginning of June to demolish the basketball court so that the new work can commence, yet as the scheduled completion date of the end of August nears, it is becoming clear that the project is in danger of overrunning.

Sadly, at a time when superb weather has seen local kids desperate to stay out of doors, the basketball court has been dug up and fenced off.

Noel Park councillor Catherine Harris comments:

“Working with Lynne Featherstone MP, we have managed to get the fencing secured after it was vandalised. The Lib Dems have been calling for an accurate update on the new play area. We have been assured that the work will be finished on time, but we are concerned that it does seem likely that there will be yet another delay.”

Noel Park councillor Fiyaz Mughal comments:

“It is a real shame that the work had to be carried out during the summer months – local youngsters are obviously missing the use of the court. At the moment, kids are resorting to playing in the street, which is obviously not as safe as the park. We will continue to keep an eye on the work here in the park, and put pressure on Haringey Council to ensure that the work is completed as quickly as possible.This really should have been completed long ago.”