MAINTAINING green spaces and improving infrastructure are at the top of Braintree Council’s annual plan.

The council highlights issues they plan to tackle throughout the year, focusing on the environment, infrastructure, economic development and finance.

Part of their plans include the refurbishment of play areas at Goldingham Drive and Milton Avenue in Braintree.

Jo Beavis, councillor responsible for health, said: “We will continue to encourage residents to lead healthier lives by making the most of our excellent leisure facilities and the green open spaces and parks available to them within our district.

“Our play areas provide young children with access to a range of free and unstructured play opportunities which directly contributes to physical health, social and emotional well-being.

“Life-long physical activity in people often starts with children’s play.”

There are 45 play areas sites around the district.

Wendy Schmitt, councillor responsible for environment, said: “This year we are again committed to ensuring our parks and play areas are maintained and that the district is kept clean.

“We have some wonderful facilities across the district which many people already use to walk, cycle, relax and play.”

The council wants to drive forward strategic improvements to the A12 and A120 in the district, the Braintree to Witham rail link, and reduce congestion at the Springwood Drive roundabout.