A new play area at Talkin Tarn is already proving a hit with families visiting the popular country park.

Work was completed on the new play area – aimed at children up to 12 and located on the shore of the tarn – at the start of the month.

A number of children have already put it to the test and Carlisle City Council said it has received a lot of positive feedback.

Ella Hage and her children Scarlett, five, and three-year-old Henry are regular visitors to the tarn from Brampton and have been three times since the new park opened.

“When the weather gets good we like to spend time at the tarn and it has given us more of a reason to go,” she said.

“It’s a much more usable space for both my children. There is more for all ages.

“It’s been really well thought-out and is really lovely.”

Commenting on Facebook, Wendy Thomas said: “Fantastic place”.

Dozens of others tagged their friends in the post to spread the word about the park’s completion. They commented how good it looks and were already planning their next visits.

Previous facilities were completely enclosed by a wooden fence. Now only the sandpit area is surrounded by a small fence and there are concerns.

Megan Baker-Bell said: “This looks good. Although it’s a shame it isn’t enclosed anymore.”

Alan Cook, of Brampton, said: “This fence arrangement also served as a useful deterrent to dogs that might be attracted to do what dogs do in the bark chippings.

“The new area has no such protection and indeed offers the even more enticing opportunity of white sand and nothing to stop animals using this as a litter tray.

“I know that we have responsible dog owners but clearing up after the deed could still leave things you wouldn’t want your child to touch.”

Mrs Hage hasn’t been worried about the fencing and said the previous gate was easily opened by the children anyway.

“If my kids are in the sand next to a huge tarn I’m going to be watching them. I’m quite happy with it,” she said.

A spokeswoman for Carlisle City Council said: “We are always grateful for customer feedback and the new play area at Talkin Tarn has been a massive hit with our younger visitors.

“We are confident that our dog-owners will respect the play area and we’ll post some signs to remind them that dogs are not permitted. Anyone allowing their dog to foul anywhere at Talkin Tarn could face prosecution.

“The new play area was paid for by income raised at Talkin Tarn through car-park ticket sales and at the tearoom.”

There are swings, a climbing frame with different levels and ropes, a slide, large sand pit, sand play items and a blue and white wooden dinghy.

The play equipment is all constructed from natural materials and is designed to harmonise with the natural environment of Talkin Tarn.

Each piece of equipment is tactile and designed to allow children to play according to their abilities and help develop their co-ordination, balance and confidence.