Council announces Crossfell play area improvements

By Connor Steel

FAREHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL have announced that the ‘improvements’ to Crossfell Walk Play Area on Bishopsfield Road are scheduled to begin in the spring subject to weather and ground conditions; this work being part of an ongoing project that is looking to “maintain and redevelop” multiple recreational / play facilities located in wards across the town.

Improvements are paid for by using £100,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Funding by the “Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUCH)”; representing ten percent of the overall £1 million allocated to the council. No exact dates have been announced at this time of writing, with users and residents urged to check here for any updates.

A public consultation was undertaken last year and received responses from a total of 345 residents; who outlined their preferences and suggestions for play area improvements. Councillors then put the project ‘out to tender’ and a contract for the work was awarded to ‘Wicksteed Leisure’ in December 2023; the news published in a media release at the time.

The improved play area will feature a range of fresh new equipment to explore; including two springies, two flat swings, hammock swing, a surf rider, speedway roundabout, spin / bounce see-saw and an adult / toddler facing swings. There will further a sensory pathway and inclusive butterfly play panel, alongside a communication board and huge multi-unit.

An existing cycle path will be redirected from its current path and three new trim trail pieces of equipment will be placed just outside the play area; including monkey bars, a balancing beam set and a wobble bridge. Finally this site’s existing Multi–use games areas (MUGA) will be fitted with new play panels and floor graphics, including a three-lane race-track.

Readers can explore a ‘quote’ from Councillor Sue Walker by clicking this link, whilst they can find out more information about the play area improvement ‘programme’ and view printable designs for Crossfell Walk facility online on this page.

PICTURED BY FAREHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL: Design showing a planned layout of Crossfell Walk once completed.