TROWBRIDGE Town Council claims it has negotiated the ‘best available deal’ for the transfer of the 24 play areas from Wiltshire Council.

The whole of Elm Grove Recreation Ground and 21 other play areas in the town will transfer to the town council’s responsibility during March this year.

The three play areas in the boundary change land, Painter’s Mead, Paxcroft Brook and Old Farm, will transfer on April 1.

Between now and the transfer, Wiltshire Council will ensure that they are all safe with grass and shrubs maintained and cut back.

The town council will be paid £50,000 to invest in improving the facilities as part of a planned programme over the five-year financial plan, with contributions from grants and an annual contribution from the town council of £10,000 to £50,000.

In total the five-year financial plan shows an investment in the town's play areas of £340,000