A PARK in Poole is set to undergo an £82,000 refurbishment to replace decades-old equipment.

Residents have been asked to give their views on improvements to Alexandra Park in Parkstone. Funding from developer contributions has been allocated for new play equipment and renovation work.

On a web page detailing the project, Poole council said Alexandra Park “is a popular and well-used open space and has been selected to benefit from new investment”.

A series of consultation events have been organised opposite the play area on Monday, July 16 (2-4pm), Friday, July 27 (1-6pm), and Saturday, August 4 (10am-1pm).

The council is also looking to form a ‘friends of’ group that will partner with the authority in the management and decision-making process “of this important local green space”.

The project team is focussed on improving the play, recreational and leisure opportunities within the park and enhancing its aesthetic appeal by renovating the current play area, with particular attention to ‘natural play’ facilities. A total of £47,000 is planned to be spent on play equipment.

Some of the current equipment is nearly 30 years old and is showing “distinct signs of wear and tear” according to the council.

Works will also be undertaken to boost “feelings of security and well-being” among park visitors.

Residents living close to the park said the area had become a magnet for anti-social behaviour. It followed a Daily Echo report on issues with drug addicts and rough sleepers at the bowling green and pavilion.

Harbour Challenge Outdoor Activity Centre leased the site from the council last year but said they were forced to abandon it due to the problems they had faced.

The project will also see current signage updated, existing benches renovated, and bins relocated. Tree and shrub works will also be carried out.

“This project will consider the age, arrangement and play value of the current provision,” the council said.

“For a wider age group there is a zip wire, basket swing and rebound wall, a basketball hoop and youth shelter within the body of the park. The project will consider the current use, function and best placement of these pieces and/or any that replace them.

“The implications for maintenance and inspection budgets must be a consideration of this project; good, sustainable design will be an important factor.

“Alexandra Park has strong Edwardian design elements; previous projects have vastly improved the park’s entrances and infrastructure and also the feel of being within an open space that has character and history. The team are mindful that any proposed changes to the hard or soft landscaping will require sensitive design.”

The consultation will close at 5pm on Monday, August 6.