Plans for the development of 12 new play areas across West Sussex have been put on hold by the local authority, after the government announced it would review the Playbuilder scheme.

The nationwide initiative was launched more than two years ago and uses central government funding to provide an additional 3,500 play site across the UK, with West Sussex County Council (WSCC) receiving £1.2m. A total of 14 projects had been due to be carried out in the current financial year; two of which - Sidlesham Recreation Ground and Steyning Memorial Playing Fields - will go ahead as work has already started.

However, the fate of the remaining 12 schemes - representing investment worth more than £500,000 - are set to be determined by the Department of Education at the end of August. WSCC cabinet member for children and families Pete Bradbury said: "I know there has been an immense amount of community involvement in preparing these playgrounds, with high hopes they will be built.

"However we must await the outcome of the Government review into all of them by the end of next month. The county council does not have available the funds to make up any shortfall and unfortunately we will not be able to proceed if the grant is withdrawn."