South Ribble Borough Council’s over £600,000 investment programme has begun at Withy Grove Park in Bamber Bridge and Paradise Park in Leyland.
The programme of improvements will deliver a range of upgrades designed to improve access, safety and facilities for park users and visitors.
£305,000 will be invested into Withy Grove Park and will see:
- An improved ball court and skate area with additional lighting and CCTV cameras
- A paved emergency access road to the northern end of the 3G pitches and paths to provide a hard surfaced area for spectators.
- Improvement works to the pond located to the western side of the 3G pitches, including desilting, vegetation clearance and the installation of fencing with lean rails.
- Improved entrance and directional signage within the park
- A widening of the junction and entrance road to the main car park to better accommodate vehicles and pedestrians
- Improved car park surrounds, replacing and rationalising bollards to tidy the area whilst ensuring the park remains secure against unauthorised vehicles.
The £302,000 investment to Paradise Park in Moss Side, Leyland, will be provided through funding received from the developer of the Centurion Village (Test Track) area and the works will see:
- Resurfacing of the existing stone path network, placing bridges over ditches and improving drainage
- The addition of new path links between the existing network and the northern boundary ready to link up with the new paths within Centurion Village development
- The planting of new trees to improve the mix of woodland species
- The installation of new entrance gates and signage at the park’s entrances
- Installation of public art within a central location in the park
Councillor Matthew Farnworth, Cabinet Member for Parks, Events and Culture, said:
“Since 2019, we’ve made fantastic progress across the borough, refurbishing 17 play areas and completing 18 parks and open space projects – and we’re just getting started.
“We were delighted to recently reopen Tardy Gate play area in Lostock Hall following a £275,000 transformation, and it’s great to now see work underway at both Withy Grove Park and Paradise Park. These improvements highlight our ongoing commitment to investing in our green spaces, so they remain welcoming, safe and enjoyable for everyone.
“We know just how important quality parks and play areas are for our communities. They give children and families the chance to get outside, be active, spend time together and most importantly, have fun.
“I’m incredibly proud that we’ve continued to invest in upgrading so many of our parks and playgrounds across South Ribble – it really shows our dedication to delivering for residents.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing the finished improvements at Withy Grove and Paradise Park and the positive difference they’ll make for local people.”
Residents are thanked in advance for their patience while the works are carried out.