Basingstoke's Eastrop Park could be upgraded by council

Eastrop Park could be transformed as Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) explores improvements to enhance and upgrade the facilities as part of the council’s commitment to invest in and improve play areas, parks, and open spaces in the town centre.

Essential repair work was carried out at the paddling pool last year, and improvements were made to the play area, including cleaning and repairs to damaged play equipment. Earlier this year, the toilets were also given a makeover.

Now, the council is keen to explore opportunities for further improvements, including better water play, signage and seating, enhancing the boating lakes and boat house facilities, and improvements to the River Loddon and spaces for nature.

The boating lake (Image: BDBC)

Detailed exploratory work with partners and agencies will take place soon to understand what can be achieved.

Each year, the Green Flag park provides thousands of people with a space to play, exercise, experience outdoor performances and explore nature for free.

Cabinet member for residents’ services and housing, Cllr Laura James, said: “We know Eastrop Park is extremely popular with people of all ages.

"For residents living in the town centre, it provides vital open space which is essential for their wellbeing and a place for employees working at our neighbouring business park to take a lunch break.

"It also draws residents from across the borough and visitors from outside, particularly during the spring and summer months.

“It is a much-loved park that spans generations of families, but key features are becoming tired and it is becoming harder to maintain them.

"We need to enhance or upgrade them to ensure they are fit for the future.

"We will now explore with partners and agencies what can be achieved to help us plan improvements we want to make for this important open space.”