A new woodland play area has been opened as part of the major makeover of Westbridge Park in Stone.

The park is undergoing a £1.5m transformation which includes new play equipment, wheeled sports facility, and multi-use games area - as well as toilets, picnic and seating areas, enhanced pathways, and landscaping.

The overall project is expected to be completed later this year, but Stafford Borough Council has already opened the new woodland play area to the public.

The woodland includes timber teepee, log climber and play trail - with other items such as a log bench, picnic table and woodland carvings to be installed.

Award-winning construction firm, Ground Control, are carrying out the work - with the wheeled sports facility being built by specialists Bendcrete - who have delivered around 400 skate parks across the country.

Along with all the new facilities, key space for local events and existing football provision have been incorporated in the design of the park.

Councillor Gillian Pardesi, Cabinet Member for Leisure at the borough council, said: “This is such an important scheme for the people of Stone and surrounding areas, and I am very pleased that we now have this new and attractive woodland area available to families and visitors to enjoy. And it already appears to be a popular addition to the park.

“We want to make sure any new facilities are available to the public as soon as it is safe to do so, and we are working closely with the contractors to ensure the overall project will be delivered on schedule.

She added: “These great facilities will draw more visitors to the town which will help support the local economy - and the improved walking and cycling routes will offer more opportunities for people to be active while enjoying the beautiful surrounds.”

More information from www.staffordbc.gov.uk/westbridge-park

Press Release No 6055