A playpark upgrade has cost several thousands more than expected after councillors fail to read some small print. 

The play area in Cutts Close, Oakham, was resurfaced last month after a series of complaints from families to the town council about the condition of the flooring. 

However it was revealed at Oakham Town Council last night (Wednesday, Oct 9) that rather than costing the £21,000 the authority had set aside, the bill from contractor Playscape Playgrounds was £32,000. The council had failed to spot in the quotes given by the contractor that the 'rainbow green' colour it opted for was more expensive than the standard black option. 

The work on Cutt's Close park, which was completed in mid-September, cost the coucil £4,000 extra. (Photo: Oakham Council Clerks)

The item had been due to be discussed in a private part of the meeting but chairman Adam Lowe said in the interests of 'transparency' the matter would be considered in public. 

The authority decided to approve the additional costs. 

Other matters discussed included backing a bid for £2,000 to the shared prosperity fund administered by Rutland County Council so Christmas lights could go up in Mill Street. The high street will also have Christmas lights provided under another contract paid for by the town council. 

Cllr Christopher Clark said businesses had been affected by the closure of Brooke Road and needed support.  

The authority also agreed to purchase the lights which had been installed at Victoria Hall last Christmas, and to stonemason quotes to repair the holes in the All Saints' Church wall.