RESIDENTS in Orsett are to be asked what sort of equipment they would like to see on the village's playing field in the wake of the mysterious and sudden removal of the existing playground.

Last week workers from Thurrock arrived at the park and removed children's play equipment, prompting concern and questions about what was happening from villagers, who had not been informed that anything was amiss.

Thurrock Nub News asked the council in the immediate aftermath of the equipment's removal what what happening. It's taken a week, but today (Thursday, 18 March) we were told.

Cabinet member for sports and leisure, Cllr Aaron Watkins, say: "We undertake weekly inspections on our play areas and this piece of equipment, which was just over 10 years old, was being monitored. On Wednesday, 9 March, it was identified that the toddler wooden play equipment, due to its condition, required removing."

Further to Cllr Watkins' statement, a council spokesperson added: "The decision was made to remove this item on the same day, and plans are in place to identify new options for the playground. The council is exploring opportunities to replace the equipment including going out to consultation, which will happen during spring/summer."