Council asks for feedback on Basingstoke park improvement plans

Author: Jonathan RichardsPublished 10th Nov 2020

Residents and users of a park in Buckskin are being asked to have their say on plans to improve the facilities.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is set to make £110,000 worth of improvements to the park near the Ridgway Community Centre, in Blackdown Close.

The community park was first developed around 15 years ago and the current facilities no longer meet the needs of children and young people. The area has also become a target for antisocial behaviour.

As a result, the project has been earmarked as a priority for the local community by the 4B community planning group, Buckskin and Worting Community Association and councillors for the Buckskin area.

The improvement project will see play equipment replaced and the design of the park modified to create a more pleasant and attractive area for all ages to use and enjoy.

Have your say

Residents and users of the facility and being encouraged to share their views on what new play equipment they would like to see in the park and what features they would like to see improved.

The responses received from the consultation will help shape the final design and residents will get a chance to review the designs and feedback any final comments during an online workshop in early 2021.

Work is expected to start on site in early summer 2021.

Workshops

The council is also planning a series of art and design workshops for young people aged 12 and above from Buckskin at the Ridgeway Community Centre in early 2021. Dates will be confirmed shortly. The artwork created during the sessions will be incorporated into the final youth space designs.

Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Partnerships Cllr Simon Bound said:

“Good quality play can make a real difference to communities, encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle for children and providing a place where new friendships can form.

“This funding provides a fantastic opportunity to update the play equipment and layout of this park for children and young people to enjoy for years to come and we want local residents to share their views on improvements they would like to see.

“I would like to thank the two local councillors for submitting the proposals on behalf of the community.”

Views

Residents are encouraged to share their views online by 18 December 2020 by visiting www.basingstoke.gov.uk/buckskin-play-facilities-consultation