Senior councillors have given their backing to revamping a local playground by leasing land.

Officers had recommended land at The Oakley Housing Estate in Fen End were leased so the play area could be revamped.

The proposal was discussed at the latest meeting of Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council's cabinet.

Peter Carroll, head of strategic land and property at the authority, explained it was in front of cabinet as it needed its approval for the plans to be put out to public consultation, required under the law.

On the Fen End site he said: "It's a playground (Balsall) parish council has offered to invest in.

"By granting a longer lease (of 21 years) to them then they are able to secure investment funding to maintain those facilities for the local community – that funding wouldn't otherwise be accessible."

Councillor Karen Grinsell, the deputy leader of Solihull Council who chaired the meeting in absence of leader Ian Courts, said: "It seems like it is an excellent proposal for the community.

"I can't envisage too much opposition to this."

The only comment made during the meeting was from leader of the Liberal Democrat group, Ade Adeyemo, who said: "When I first read this 'disposal' gave the impression we were actually giving the land away, but we are not.

"I think we should make it clear it's actually a lease".

Mr Carroll explained this was the legal term needed to be used for the consultation, which was why the word had been used.

Cllr Grinsell asked if anyone agreed, to which unanimous approval was given.