Major makeovers of four play areas are now complete as part of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s drive to provide play spaces that are well maintained and inclusive.

The play areas at Abbey Road in Popley, Fennel Close in Chineham, Roseberry Close in Hatch Warren and Sidlaw Close in Buckskin are now open for children to enjoy this half term, with a fifth play area at Upper Sherborne Road in Oakridge close to completion.  

The work to install brand new inclusive play equipment at each of the play areas has been completed as part of the council’s play area refurbishment scheme which identifies those play areas most in need of replacement.

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services and Housing Cllr Laura James said: “We know our play areas are important to families, providing free access to outdoor play spaces for children in borough. The council is responsible for 147 play areas and we have made it a priority to continue to improve these important facilities and to invest in the repair or replacement of aging or broken equipment, where possible.

"I am delighted we are already receiving great feedback from users of the new look play areas and I hope they will continue to be well used, well treated and enjoyed.”

Following input from local residents, plans for four more play area refurbishments will be drawn up this summer for Two Gate Meadow play in Overton, Watling End play area in Hatch Warren, Cranesfield play area in Sherborne St John and Arlott Drive play in South View. It is anticipated work will start on these play areas towards the end of the year.

More information about the council’s play area refurbishment programme can be found at https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/play-area-refurbishment-programme