London's Hyde Park is set to benefit from the installation of a £40,000 outdoor "senior playground" after plans were given the go ahead by Westminster City Council (WCC).

Fitness equipment supplied by Kompan, which has been designed to provide exercise for people over the age of 60 years, will be installed in the park's Pavilion tennis and bowls centre this spring. The equipment, which will include a cross-trainer and a sit up bench, is set to occupy an area covering 125sq m (1,345sq ft) and will also be available for use by people under the age of 60 years.

First proposed by the Knightsbridge Association, a local residents' group, the Hyde Park Senior Playground scheme has been funded by the council under its Ward Budget Scheme and will be project managed by the Royal Parks. Madeline Elsdon of the Knightsbridge Association said: "We proposed the playground because many older people find indoor gyms intimidating and expensive and therefore aren't exercising enough.

"As well as the physical and mental benefits we hope that the playground will encourage users to socialize and have fun together. People need to stay active, maintain independence and are never too old to play." Royal Parks chief executive Mark Camley added: "We are keen to encourage people of all ages to keep fit and active and we believe that this new facility will inspire many people to take exercise and have fun while they're doing it."

Image: Kompan equipment in use in a Denmark park