THE indoor play area at Bromsgrove's Artrix arts centre has been removed after a review found the play equipment did not fully comply with British Standard guidelines.

General wear and tear prompted a review of the soft play area during the school holidays, which uncovered breaches of two health and safety guidelines relating to the lack of cushioning around the equipment and crowded access points.

Mum and Artrix regular Sara Bagley said: "For a year or so my two-year-old daughter and friends have enjoyed the kid-friendly atmosphere of the Artrix with a ball pool, soft play area, mini iPads, high chairs, small kids' library.

"Today we turned up with an excited two-year-old only to find it had all changed - no soft play area, ball pool, books or iPads.

"These changes have made the place soulless. In fact there was no one else in there today.

"It's such a shame as it was a lovely place for children and adults to enjoy a friendly, safe environment and make friends."

A spokesman for the Artrix said: "Artrix aims to provide a welcoming foyer for customers and participants to socialise in, enjoy the cafe and use as a creative space, including our youngest of visitors and their families.

Bromsgrove Advertiser:

"Unfortunately the indoor soft play area has been removed and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

"Since the equipment was installed two years ago, it has been well used and enjoyed by many families visiting Artrix.

"We are really pleased that so many young people enjoyed the soft play area and it is not our intention to disappoint anyone.

"However, the inevitable wear and tear of the play equipment caused us to review the area and we must now act upon the advised changes for the safety of our young visitors.

"Our aim at Artrix is to provide customers of all ages with a safe and welcoming environment.

"We are always looking at ways to improve and enhance the Artrix so please rest assured we are busy behind the scenes looking into alternative family friendly activities in the foyer and cafe bar."