A playground described as "dangerous" does not need improving, according to Redbridge council.

Nicola Calabresé, 48, of Nightingale Lane, and Louise Cutler, 41, of Wigram Road, have launched a crowdfunding bid for the renovation of the playground on Christ Church Green in High Street, Wanstead.

They are hoping to raise a minimum of £16,000 in the online fundraising appeal for two new play areas early next year.

Park users who the Guardian spoke to on Friday said there were "trip hazards" and the equipment was "dangerous".

But a council spokesman rejected these claims, saying Vision RCL, which runs leisure facilties on behalf of the council, inspects the park regularly.

He said: “This play area is visually inspected at least weekly with formal inspections taking place monthly.

“We are confident that it is a safe place to play and equipment is not in a condition that needs replacing.

“Earlier this year £9,000 of funding was agreed to improve safety surfacing and provide wear paths between equipment to reduce damage to the grass. This work has now been completed.

“In the last five years Vision RCL has also secured investment to provide replacement swings, a rope swing, and a tractor climbing unit.

“We understand that residents want the very best facilities for their children’s play areas and we strive to provide that.

“However, like all public sector services we have to work within budgets and try to secure external investment where we can.

“We believe our track record of providing improvements to this play area over the last few years shows that we are committed to giving the children of the borough safe and enjoyable places to play and we take our responsibility seriously.”