BLUEPRINTS to transform two public open spaces, featuring schemes costing more than £400,000, have been approved.

Hambleton District Council’s cabinet has passed action plans to improve parks in Bedale and Carlton Miniott, near Thirsk, and provide a more strategic and efficient process for allocating contributions from housing developments.

In Bedale, the plan features play equipment for eight to 15-year-olds at Bedale Park and resurfacing and floodlighting for tennis courts and cricket nets as demand for training facilities increases.

The blueprint also features a moulded concrete skatepark, public art at Bedale Hall, reflecting history of modern day events in stainless steel and a town centre feature area to the front of the post office.

The most costly elements of the plan are the skatepark, which has been estimated to cost £120,000 and the town centre feature area, which could cost £150,000.

The scheme in Carlton Miniott, near Thirsk, includes a £25,000 bike pump track and a £35,000 storage and changing facility.