A LEADING councillor in Barnet has defended the decision to build a play area in a small Edgware park and warned residents “we should not treat young people as a problem”.

More than 50 people signed a petition to have the plug pulled on a play scheme for 8-12-year-olds in Stoneyfields Park because of fears over vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

However, Barnet Council ignored their request and are set to build the park before the end of the month, when funding from the government Playbuilder scheme would be taken away.

Dseputy council leader Councillor Andrew Harper, who is also responbsible for children's services, said: “Wherever possible we try to reach a consensus of opinion with local residents, but in certain cases this simply it isn’t possible.

“We have to accept some people aren't happy with this decision and move on otherwise we are in danger of losing a golden opportunity to access Playbuilder funds to enhance facilities for young people in the borough.

“Whenever we ask residents what their priorities for the borough are, providing facilities for young people is always near the top.”

Yesterday Tory Hale ward councillor Brian Gordon said he and colleague Cllr Hugh Rayner had tried to stop the development after a residents' meeting on Thursday.

Cllr Harper added: “Stoneyfields Park in Hale ward was chosen as one of the eleven sites for the installation of new play equipment because it has the third highest number of under 14s in Barnet and it is something young people have been asking us for.

"Frankly we shouldn't treat young people as a problem. While I can understand why a few people might not like the decision, it is vital that young people have a say and that they are provided with the outdoor facilities they want.

“I am sure that the vast majority of residents will wish to work with us to make this a success, as they are in our other ten Playbuilder parks."

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