Families in a Lincolnshire village have been left astonished after discovering they're being forced to pay £1,200 for what appears to be a simple wooden log placed in a children's play area.
The Great Log Controversy
Residents of North Hykeham near Lincoln received an unexpected bill from North Kesteven District Council, demanding payment for a "play log" installed in the Mill Green play area. The controversial charge forms part of a larger £14,000 bill being distributed among households for recent playground improvements.
One bewildered local told reporters: "It's literally a log. They've just placed it there and now we're all having to pay for it. I can't believe the council thinks this is reasonable."
Council Defends Expenditure
North Kesteven District Council has stood by the decision, claiming the log serves as valuable "natural play equipment" that encourages creative outdoor activities for children. Council officials argue that such features are essential for modern play areas and represent good value for money.
A council spokesperson stated: "The play area improvements, including natural elements like the log, are designed to provide diverse play opportunities and have been implemented following consultation with the community."
Resident Backlash Grows
The decision has sparked anger among locals who question the council's spending priorities during a cost-of-living crisis. Many residents have taken to social media to express their disbelief, with some suggesting they could have sourced similar natural play equipment for a fraction of the cost.
"At a time when everyone is watching every penny, this kind of spending feels particularly tone-deaf," commented one frustrated parent. "We're all struggling with rising bills, and then we get this through the door."
Broader Questions About Local Spending
The incident has raised wider questions about transparency in local government spending and how councils justify expenditure on public amenities. Community representatives are now calling for clearer breakdowns of how public money is allocated to such projects.
Local councillors have promised to review the charging process for future community improvements, acknowledging the need for better communication about how costs are calculated and distributed among residents.
