Paths and trails offer new ways of enjoying Itchen Valley Country Park
Major transformation includes tranquil walking and cycling routes
Work to transform Itchen Valley Country Park in West End is making great progress, with new play areas, and tracks and trails for walkers and cyclists open or nearing completion.
The path network at the top of the country park commands beautiful views from its highest points making walking here very special and offering a chance for contemplation and relaxation. Over the past three years, the country park's rangers have tended the trees that line the paths. Visitors can look forward to walking under an avenue of wild cherry, hawthorn, rowan and silver birch. The new footpath is perfect for those on wheels too, with work continuing over winter to connect the upgraded cycle track with forest trails, completing a 5km route to be enjoyed all year round.
The park’s newest play area, The Den, is designed with the youngest visitors in mind; small children can enjoy a slide, toddler swings, balance logs and more fun features to help them begin their first outdoor adventure. Meanwhile, older adventurers will soon be able to enjoy a double zip wire designed to be accessible for a range of users, a larger slide, swings - and much more - in the area at the top of the park.
Chair of Hedge End, West End & Botley Local Area Committee, Councillor Cynthia Garton, said: “It’s wonderful to see the improvements to Itchen Valley Country Park coming to fruition. As well as exciting attractions such as the new play and adventure areas for younger visitors, the walking and cycling trails offer an excellent opportunity to relax and unwind in beautiful green surroundings. Congratulations to the Council team and our contractors for their hard work in getting us to this milestone.”
The improvements to Itchen Valley Country Park are ongoing and some features and areas may be temporarily closed as further work takes place. Highlights of the transformation also include a new community building and remodelling of the existing Highwood Barn and Kingfisher Barn, better barbecue and picnic areas, a Changing Places room for disabled users, a new central events and welcoming space, and a covered outdoor seating area for customers to the popular Woodland Café.
Find out more at www.itchenvalley.co.uk.
Picture caption: Chair of Hedge End, West End & Botley Local Area Committee, Councillor Cynthia Garton and Jen from the Country Parks team enjoy a walk on the newly surfaced path