Questions have been raised over whether North Tawton Town Council acted quickly enough after inspectors identified decaying timber on play equipment, part of which collapsed last month.

The questions follow the publication of the March and August inspection reports, both of which identify rotting timber on the large multiplay structure in Memorial Park, part of which collapsed about a week after the August inspection. The August inspection also identified rusty and notched fixings.

The March RoSPA inspection gave the large multiplay equipment a medium risk score, noting that several posts were decayed and others softening, which could affect the structural integrity of the unit. The report recommended the council plan for the replacement of the whole unit, but suggested careful monitoring in the meantime and the replacement of decayed components and rotting top bar beam ends and braces. The inspector advised supporting components be dismantled and inspected for damage.

The August inspection graded the same play equipment with a higher risk score, noting rotting timber and rusty and notched fixings. They recommended close monitoring as timber rot was “unpredictable”.

The cross beam on the climbing frame’s balance bridge fell a week after the inspection. At the September council meeting, a member said the report identified “some decay” but that it was “not extensive.” Councillors also heard the equipment could have have failed when an adult climbed it.

However, the council subsequently informed the Okehampton Times the inspections had not raised any faults or issues.

North Tawton resident Christian Martin has raised concerns over the effectiveness of the council’s health and safety arrangements in highlighting and rectifying issues as quickly as possible to prevent any accidents.

In an open letter he said: “Why was no urgent proposal apparently brought forward to repair or make safe the affected equipment, undertake further investigation, restrict its use or, where appropriate, take it out of use pending remedial action?

“A substantial piece of children's play equipment subsequently suffered a structural failure. We were extremely fortunate no child appears to have been seriously injured.

“I am not suggesting the August inspection predicted precise failure. However, by then the council had received two professional inspections within five months identifying deterioration in equipment being used by children.”

A North Tawton Town Council spokesperson, said: “The inspection carried out on August 7 found the unit was ‘showing its age and evidence of timber rot’. However, none of the issues identified were considered urgent.

“The recommended remedial action stated that ‘no immediate action was required, but timber rot is unpredictable and the unit should be routinely monitored’.

“The handy person would continue to undertake monthly inspections of the equipment.”

The council added: “It should also be noted the play equipment is reaching the end of its operational lifespan. While routine inspections and monitoring can help identify developing issues, the general condition of the equipment indicates that replacement of all play equipment will be required. Any repairs undertaken should therefore be considered interim measures pending the renewal of the play area and installation of new equipment.”