CHILDREN'S play equipment that was trashed by vandals is set to be available for use again next week, with repairs due to get underway today.

The castle climbing frame at Robertson Park, in Renfrew, which was part of a £1million investment in the green space in 2017, has had to be cordoned off after yobs set fire to a bin next to it.

The blaze badly damaged and blackened the structure, which will now have to undergo costly repairs.

Gemma Williams, manager at Renfrew-based In Safe Hands Childcare, said the incident had “broken kids’ hearts” and snatched away from them one of the only things they had been able to enjoy during the coronavirus lockdown.

But despite initial fears it could take several weeks to reopen the castle, it has now emerged it should be accessible again in just a few days’ time.

Councillor John Shaw, who represents the area, said he had been in contact with officers at Renfrewshire Council who confirmed the work will be less complicated than was first thought.

The SNP man said on social media: “Initial estimates had been up to six weeks to get replacement panels, so I was pleased to hear that, after a visit from the company who constructed the new playpark, it has been confirmed it should be back available for all its little princes and princesses in the next few days.

“The wood used to build the majority of the castle is fairly dense, so most of the damage is superficial and will be able to be repaired on site. This, along with some replacement fittings, means the work is much less complex than we were expecting.”

Council chiefs are to install CCTV cameras at the park but these will not be 'live' until late spring.

Miss Williams added: “It’s brilliant to hear the council has acted so quickly and the kids will be able to use the castle again next week. They will be over the moon.

"We were worried it could take months to get it fixed.”

Police are carrying out extra patrols in the area as a result of the vandalism.

A council spokesman said: “Our contractors are due to start repairs to the playpark this Thursday and expect them to be complete and the equipment available for use some time next week.

“We again condemn this appalling and costly vandalism to a space which is much loved and well used by residents of Renfrew and beyond and appeal for anyone with information to speak to the police.”