HUNDREDS of people have signed a Stourbridge mom’s petition demanding Dudley Council consult with families of disabled children about the lack of suitable outdoor play facilities in the borough.

And the petition has proved successful – with the council promising its parks team will meet with concerned mom Rachael Philpott to address her worries.

The News reported two weeks ago on Rachael’s frustration at the lack of accessible equipment for her two-year-old son Max at parks in the borough, particularly in Stourbridge.

Dudley Council replied, saying Mary Stevens Park features a basket swing and water play area, while the Sycamore Adventure Playground in Dudley hosts a variety of accessible outdoor play equipment.

There are also plans to install new equipment at Cot Lane Park in Kingswinford but Miss Philpott, 30, says the council needs to consult with families affected to ensure the optimum facility level possible.

She said: “The park they are updating on Cot Lane is set to include a basket swing but this is not accessible for most as some disabled children are too heavy to be lifted.

“Sycamore Adventure is also unsuitable for a lot of children for the same reason and also the uneven grounding and different levels.

“The council also seems to think that a basket swing makes an accessible park.

“What Dudley Council actually need to do is speak to the families who need this equipment to see what is accessible to them. There is a petition online to try to make them realise this.”

The petition has been signed by almost 600 people and counting, many of whom have posted statements supporting Rachael’s quest.

Signee Rachel Wells said: “Children need to play together in an inclusive society. Dudley Council have a responsibility to ensure that outdoor and free play areas are accessible for all.”

Helen Bannister wrote: “I have a son with disabilities. Only two roundabouts are suitable for him in Stourbridge. How is that fair? Bucket swings and equipment which all kids can use should be the norm.”

Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for environmental services, said: “Of course we are always keen to listen to local parents and discuss any thoughts or concerns they may have.

“We have invited the parent in to meet with our parks team to discuss the development of the play area at Mary Stevens Park.

“We’ve got a good track good record of consulting with parents and children around accessible play equipment and in the case of Sycamore Adventure, wheelchair accessible roundabouts, bucket swings, sand pits and water play were all very popular choices.”