Town park's £1.2m revamp to begin this month

Initial work on the multi-million pound revamp of a town park is due to get under way later this month.

The first phase of the scheme at Rowley Park Sports Stadium in Stafford is set to include a new play area and gym equipment along with seating, pathways and woodland planting.

About £1.2m has been allocated to this part of the project, from money provided to the council by developers of local construction schemes.

The authority said hundreds of people had shared their views on what they felt should be included in the park's overhaul.

Staff visited schools to find out what children wanted and had discussed the plans with disability groups to ensure the play park was more inclusive.

Toddler play facilities were the main priority from those who gave their feedback following the initial consultation, bosses said.

They added that more detailed plans for future stages of the scheme would be drawn up when further funding becomes available.

These could include a wheeled sports area, community sports hub and changing rooms with new public toilets.

Later phases might include new tennis courts, a community garden and walking routes as well as picnic places and car park improvements, they added.

The park is currently home to an artificial football pitch, athletics track, tennis courts and bowling green as well as a children's play area.

The council said a replacement artificial pitch would be installed during the summer and there would be improvements to floodlighting this year as well.

"It is shaping up to be another great facility where families can enjoy spending time, where people want to use for leisure and sporting activities, and one which our residents can be proud of," said councillor Gillian Pardesi, cabinet member for leisure.

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