YOUNGSTERS will have a major input into the future development of Billingham's John Whitehead Park.

The Supporters of John Whitehead Park and Stockton Borough Council have been working to put together a master-plan for the park's development.

For the past 50 years the park has provided entertainment for young and old, but now plans are being drawn up to revitalise and modernise its facilities.

They include a skate park, chill-out zones, a climbing wall, a graffiti wall and sensory garden.

Ken Shannon, chairman of the supporters' group, said: "The 50th anniversary of the opening of John Whitehead Park is a wonderful occasion to be looking at bringing it back to a busy and popular family park.

"The development plans are really exciting. We have spoken to as many people as possible to make sure that everyone is included.

"The students have been involved from the start because we are doing it for them and, hopefully, it will be them looking after it in the future.

"Some of the ideas for the park are very experimental and hopefully that will mean that it will become a wonderful asset to the town.

"The committee has already done a tremendous amount of work and they deserve praise for their efforts in making this an excellent set of plans."

Proposals for the Park also include improved security with CCTV, new play facilities and an improved main entrance.

The development of the park is part of the multi-million pound regeneration plans for Billingham Town Centre.

Between Friday, April 13, and Friday 27, people will be asked to fill in a questionnaire about their views on the park's future.

An information leaflet will provide a broad description of the project aims and objectives.

On Saturday, April 21, members of the John Whitehead Park Group will be answering questions in the bowls pavilion.

The plans will be on show in Billingham and Roseberry libraries, Clarence C&E Centre, Low Grange, Wolviston Court and Billingham community centres, Footsteps Children Centre, Billingham Forum and the Environment Centre, in Stockton.