Brand new inclusive play equipment is being installed at each of the play areas in Hatch Warren, Overton, Sherborne St John and South View as part of the council’s play area refurbishment scheme, which identifies those play areas most in need of replacement.

Work to refurbish the play space at Watling End in Hatch Warren has now finished, allowing young people the chance to try out the new equipment ahead of the festive break. The council’s contractors have also started transforming the existing outdated space at Two Gate Meadow in Overton. New equipment for toddlers and primary school children will be installed and the play area will be extended.

Work to refurbish the play areas at Arlott Dive in South View and Cranesfield in Sherborne St John is due to start in January.

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services and Housing Cllr Laura James said: “We know our play areas are important to families and that is why we are continuing to invest in refurbishing and maintaining them, where possible.  The council is responsible for 147 play areas across Basingstoke and Deane and our play area refurbishment scheme identifies those play areas most in need of repair each year. 

“Local residents have had the chance to help us to shape each of the new-look play spaces and I hope they will be enjoyed and well used by many young people and their families once they are completed.”

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