There is no doubt that children have had a rough deal in Oxford.

Lack of investment over the years has allowed many of the city's play parks to fall into disrepair.

Play equipment in some areas has had to be removed after being deemed unsafe.

But now the future looks much brighter.

The Labour city council has unveiled an ambitious plan to spend £2.5m, bringing 55 of the worst affected up to scratch.

It has effectively reversed the policy of the previous Liberal Democrat administration, which was happy to throw in the towel.

It said it could not afford to pay for improvements and urged communities to seek Lottery funding to save their play areas.

How pleasing to see this backward-looking policy axed.

Safe, secure play areas, with up-to-date equipment, are an essential part of modern life.

Unlike previous generations, many children don't have the benefit of large gardens to play in, and playing in the street is out of the question everywhere.

All children need fresh air and a chance to let off steam.

With this investment, they will have a chance to do so and stay healthy.

Another pleasing aspect of the policy is that money is being set aside to ensure that play areas remain in good condition.

Never again must the city allow its play areas to suffer from neglect.