A DREAM come true for kids or an annoyance to dog walkers?

That’s the debate Poole residents are having after diggers moved in to Selkirk Close, Merley, unannounced and workmen began erecting a zip wire, slides and swings.

Plans to refurbish the existing play area in a corner of the field were put on hold last year when the government clawed back Playbuilder funding which Poole council had set aside for 16 playgrounds. Now, obstacles and children’s equipment are being dotted around the site to the tune of £75,000.

Marc Mizen, of Selkirk Close, says many residents are irked that they weren’t consulted about the new project.

“After the funding was pulled last year we didn’t hear a thing. Then last week big trucks, lorries and skips turned up last week without warning,” the father-of-four said.

“This lovely wooded area which attracts probably about 15 to 20 dog walkers in the morning alone is ruined. This set-up is going to encourage a lot of anti-social behaviour.”

Mike Gotobed, the council’s play development officer, said after an initial consultation last year, they felt it was unnecessary to try again.

“Work needs to be completed by the summer holidays and unfortunately to meet this deadline we have started works before putting up site notices,” he said.

“However, we are in the process of rectifying this and hope that the majority of residents will be happy with the refurbished play area once completed.”

Mr Mizen, a 37-year-old gardener, says he’s sure children will enjoy the trail.

“It’s all over the open space, and I really think they have gone too far – it is too much. I’m worried they’ll want to stop people letting their dogs off the lead next.”