CONTROVERSIAL plans to close five playgrounds have been approved.

Barrow Borough Council's executive committee agreed to close the playgrounds in an attempt to save £13,247 - but encouraged local residents to take over the running of the playgrounds themselves.

The proposals were passed almost unanimously, with Councillor Alan Pemberton voicing his objections.

He said: "I'm a little confused and disappointed with this policy. We seem to be in a situation where we invest money to get these playgrounds but then let them go without maintenance until we have a good excuse to shut them down.

"I think these places are excellent places for kids to go and enjoy themselves and get some exercise."

Of the five identified for closure, the council has welcomed proposals for the management of parks at Dowie Close and Rusland Avenue in Barrow and Storey Square in Dalton.

Speaking about the latter, Councillor Wendy Maddox said: "This is the one I think people will fight for. It was a very well used park when it first opened.

"The kids have all grown up now but I think if you go to the community and they look after it then that would be a good thing."

The parks at Lakeland Avenue in Barrow and Sandy Gap on Walney will close, while discussions are to be held over the management of parks at Biggar Village and Talisman Close in Barrow.

Councillor Brendan Sweeny said: "We are keeping 28 other playgrounds around the town and they are at a better standard than these five. We're working to improve the quality of those.

"There's been anti-social behaviour problems at the park at Lakeland Avenue and it's not in a good place."