FAQs
- Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 18:00
- Saturday (if required): 09:00 – 13:00
- Large waste like soil will be collected by grab lorries.
- General waste like packaging will go into skips.
It’s been over four months since work started – why isn’t it finished yet?
The exceptionally wet winter slowed progress during the early stages of the project. We’ve also had to carefully manage technical challenges, including protecting a mature oak tree and resolving drainage issues, which requires working closely with Southern Water.
When will the playground and splash pad reopen?
The playground and splash pad will reopen by the school summer holidays. We’re not able to give an exact date yet, as progress depends on resolving the remaining technical issues around tree protection and drainage in partnership with Southern Water.
Will there be any access to the park once works begin?
Yes, Victoria Park will remain largely open during the works. You’ll still be able to walk through the park on the footpaths and around the grass areas for most of the time.
The skate park, café and tennis courts are not affected by the works.
The eastern entrance from South Road will be closed to enable the works to improve access in this area.
Some footpaths will need to close, so please follow on-site signs and information.
Will I still be able to park in the west car park on Haywards Road and access Victoria Park?
Yes, parking will be unaffected. Access will remain open via the entrance from Haywards Road but please follow on site signage.
Will I still be able to access the skate park / café / tennis courts?
Yes, the skate park, café and tennis courts are not affected by the works.
Will I still be able to play football at Victoria Park?
Yes, the pitches will remain available use.
I walk my dog at Victoria Park, can I still go around the pitches?
Yes, the majority of the park will remain open.
The eastern entrance from South Road will be closed to improve accessibility, so please follow signs and stay clear of work zones.
When will the playground be closed?
The playground will be fully closed for the duration of the works while we install new play equipment and improve accessibility.
Will the Splash Pad be affected by the changes to the playground?
The Splash Pad will be closed for the duration of the works.
No works are planned to the Splash Pad but the area around it will be improved to provide more seating.
What will the days/ hours of work be?
Our contractor, Blakedown Landscapes, will work:
No construction or demolition will take place on Sundays or Public Holidays.
During the works how will waste from the site be managed?
Waste will be moved by dumper trucks to a main compound. From there:
All waste will be taken away by licensed waste carriers.
Are you taking down any trees?
No trees are being removed as part of the planned works.
Five new trees will be planted within the play area.
Will the grass be cut and the bins be emptied during the works?
Yes, we are coordinating with our grounds maintenance contractor to ensure regular maintenance continues in accessible areas.
Where is the money coming from to pay for this work?
34% is from central governments UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
33% is s106, which is what developers pay to improve the local area when they build new homes.
33% from Council capital investment to maximise efficiency while other works are underway.