RESIDENTS in Poole are being asked to have their say on improvements to Alexandra Park.

The park, at Parkstone, is set to benefit from £82,000 investment, which has been made available to Borough of Poole (BOP) from developer contributions.

Now BOP wants to hear from local people about how this funding could be spent to improve the attraction.

Anti-social behaviour, including drinking and drug-taking, has been reported in the area in the past.

However, residents living close to the park say it remains a real community asset.

The public consultation will run until August 6.

There will also be a special event in the park on the Saturday before the consultation deadline, including a range of family-orientated activities, from 10am-1pm.

BOP open spaces development manager Martin Whitchurch said: "We are delighted to have secured funding to help make various improvements to this popular park including the play areas.

"It also provides a great opportunity for us to engage with the local community and see how we can help empower local residents to become actively involved in this park.

"During the public event we will be talking to residents about the possibility of developing a community group and creating a Friends of Alexandra Park group. Such groups can play a vital role in developing and sustaining a thriving local area and we are keen to see this happen for Alexandra Park."

Mr Whitchurch also said he is well aware of the antisocial issues in the park.

He added: "We are making every effort to turn this situation around and deliver improvements that will encourage local residents and the community to make full use of the park in the future"

Meanwhile, BOP environment portfolio holder Cllr John Rampton urged resident to take part in the consultation.

The councillor said: "Alexandra Park is a popular large open space used by residents of all ages, dog walkers, community groups and is a regular route for children walking to the local school. The consultation provides a great opportunity for local people to engage with the council and help shape improvements that benefit the whole community.

"I would encourage all park users to complete the survey or pop along to one of the public events in the park."

Visit BOP's website to take part in the consultation.