Is was a sad day for the children of South Wimbledon when they saw their beloved play area disappear to make way for a new block of homes.

But now they have reason to celebrate once more as the replacement playground has finally opened.

In December last year, Clarion Housing opened the new on High Path to replace the area closed in Pincott Road so that the first 134 homes could be built with children on hand to mark the occasion.

Michael Bradley, headteacher at Merton Abbey Primary School, said: “The children were delighted to see their new play space.

"They are proud to be part of the regeneration project and have loved contributing their views and ideas over the last three years.

"Personally, I am pleased that the children will have a dedicated area for outdoor play on the estate for the duration of the regeneration project.”

Demolition of the Pincott Road play area, garages and Old Lamp Works building has taken place and construction of new homes will begin in the coming weeks.

Tim Sargeant, Head of Merton Regeneration at Clarion Housing, said: “With the help of residents we’ve developed plans to transform their neighbourhood through regeneration. A part of this was the children at Merton Abbey Primary School telling us their hopes for the future.

“Our objectives for regeneration include usable public open space.

"This is why we promised to re-provide the play area for local children to play. Once regeneration is complete High Path will have a neighbourhood park located centrally for the whole community.”