Work is progressing on improvements to access and the play area at Victoria Park. This includes more accessible play equipment and a refreshed layout, and new seating and picnic benches for the Splash Pad.

The redevelopment is going well, but we’ve uncovered an unexpected issue with a drain while rebuilding the steps, in an area close to a mature oak tree that needs protecting. We’re working with Southern Water to resolve this; however, this has meant the programme is taking longer than planned. Although it may look quiet on site at times, planning and coordination are continuing so we can complete the remaining works as soon as possible.

To manage expectations, the play park and Splash Pad will not reopen by May Half Term, and we will provide a further update in June on what’s happening and a revised timeline as soon as we have confirmed it.

Accessible entrance from South Road

We’ve received a few questions from residents about the steps and access. The park will have an accessible entrance, and handrails will be installed on the steps. The steps are made from a non-slip stone, and a new ramp with a gentle gradient will be created, for wheelchairs and push chairs.

Works have progressed in the play area with the installation of more play equipment, boulders, and tree planting. The new concrete seat wall around the splash pad has been poured which will provide lots of seating for parents whilst their children play.

We carefully removed the old gym equipment to lay new surfacing with a view to reinstalling it but found it to be in poor condition. The decision was made to remove the outdoor gym equipment entirely. The area has been reinstated to grass to provide a welcoming entrance.

Progress on the works near South Road remains on pause while final details are agreed with Southern Water regarding a manhole within the construction area. Work continues behind the scenes to keep this moving.

Our contractor is working closely with us to ensure minimal impact on the upcoming events in the park, whilst still progressing the improvements.

Over the past month, we have experienced above average seasonal rainfall. This has resulted in saturated ground conditions, which have slowed progress on site.

Despite this, works to the play area have progressed well. Installation of the play equipment has begun, and the sub‑base for the new surfacing has now been laid.

The old seating area on South Road has also been removed to make way for the new wide steps. These will open up the entrance to the park and create a more welcoming approach.

Over the past month, work on the site has continued where possible, despite winter weather, and periods of heavy rainfall.

The old, steep ramp and steps have now been removed and replaced with new granite steps. The new staircase is wider and will include handrails on both sides, as well as a central handrail, making it more comfortable and easier for people to use.

Work at Victoria Park is now under way on the playground. All of the old play equipment been removed, apart from the splash pad and the site is being prepared for the next stage of improvements. These works include improvements to the drainage.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as these works continue.

From Monday 17^th November 2025, our contractor, Blakedown Landscapes, will be on site to begin upgrading the play area and South Road entrance at Victoria Park, to create a more inclusive and accessible space for all.

Key improvements include a wider entrance from South Road with high quality steps and a gentler slope. Paths are being enhanced to improve access between upper and lower levels, including better connections into and through the play space.

Play facilities are being upgraded with a new accessible play platform, plenty of swings, toddler play area, and play embankment. The popular Splash Pad will remain, now set within a more inviting space with new seating and picnic benches.

The play area and north eastern entrance to the park will be closed for approximately four months while work is carried out. We appreciate your patience and look forward to welcoming you back to a revitalised, more inclusive park soon.

See Victoria Park improvements plan - Oct 25 in the Plans and Documents section

Our contractor Blakedown Landscapes will be on site from the 27 October 2025 to remove a section of the hedge next to the eastern end of the South Road entrance and playground. This hedge needs to be removed by the end of October for Ecological reasons.

We hope to be starting the rest of the work very soon.

We're thrilled to announce that Blakedown Landscapes has been appointed to deliver the upcoming improvements at Victoria Park! With their extensive experience in delivering high-quality landscape projects, we’re confident the park improvements will make a real difference to the local community.

Blakedown Landscapes has an impressive portfolio, having worked on high-profile projects like RHS Garden Wisley, the Natural History Museum, as well as public parks just like Victoria Park. Their expertise and dedication ensure that we’re in great hands.

Work is set to begin in 2025, and we can’t wait to see the new enhancements take shape! Stay tuned for more updates as we move forward.

Plans for improvements to the playground and access from South Road were approved at District Planning committee on Thursday 30th May.

The project design team continue to prepare the detail documents needed to go out for tender to appoint a contractor.