Midhurst playpark set for major makeover as refurbishment gets underway
Refurbishment work has officially begun at Carron Lane playpark in Midhurst.
Midhurst Town Council confirmed work began on November, 3, which will see the playpark given a new lease of life.
Completion of the works is expected in the first week of December, weather permitting, the council added.
The upgraded playground will feature a large four-towered castle play structure, complete with monkey bars, climbing holds and sliding poles designed to provide plenty of challenges for older children.
Younger visitors will also be catered for, with a dedicated toddler-friendly play area, while other additions will include a large swing area, a Supernova roundabout and animal springer equipment.
There will also be opportunities for imaginative play, with a pretend petrol station among the planned features, alongside a large multi-person seesaw.
Designed for children aged under 12, the new playground is expected to accommodate up to 80 children at a time.
The project follows an extensive consultation process involving local residents, families, regular park users and three year groups at Midhurst C of E Primary School.
According to the town council, the plans have been around 18 months in the making, with seven playground companies initially approached before proposals were considered.
The preferred design was selected partly because it incorporated ideas gathered during the consultation, with a group of local children also helping choose their favourite proposal.
Playground specialist Kompan has been appointed to carry out the work.
The refurbishment is being funded through a combination of town council funds, Community Infrastructure Levy money generated through local housing development and grants from Chichester District Council and the South Downs National Park Authority.
A £15,000 grant from Chichester District Council was also approved to support the project.
Despite the work taking place, visitors will still be able to enjoy parts of Carron Lane Recreation Ground throughout November.
The town council has confirmed that the skate park, existing wooden play equipment and adult outdoor fitness equipment will remain accessible while the refurbishment is underway.