New Verwood play area open to the public

Verwood residents, local councillors, suppliers, and contractors recently came together as Dorset Council officially opened a brand-new play area on Eastworth Road in Verwood.

Funded by contributions from Penny Farthing Homes – the developer of the nearby housing estate - the refurbished play area provides a space for the community to relax and engage with nature.

The aim of the project was to create a safe and fun environment for the whole community to enjoy. Dorset Council’s Planning and Natural Environment teams came up with the concept and took it to community for public engagement.

The area design and equipment choice were based on feedback received from the community, and the design was produced by the Council’s Landscape Architects. On the existing site surrounded by mature oak trees and hedges, we reinstated play area with new largely accessible and exciting playground equipment, accessible paths, bicycle stands and buggy/mobility equipment parking, sensory planting, local ecology interpretation boards, and picnic tables.

Dorset Council Officers from the Highways, Landscaping and Greenspace teams carried out construction of the park, with support from our Ecology, Arboriculture and Grounds teams to ensure the natural wildlife and environment was well looked after throughout. The Council’s Landscaping and Greenspace teams installed the equipment, while the Waste Services team helped with installing new bins for the area.

Sherman Fencing provided and installed playground fencing, while PlaySmart UK provided and installed playground safety surfacing. Kompan Playground Equipment assisted with design and supplied the playground equipment.

Cllr Toni Coombs, Dorset Council ward member for Verwood, said:

“I’m proud to open this play area for the local community. It’s a wonderful space, and I’m looking forward to seeing Verwood residents of all ages enjoy the new facilities.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved for their hard work in making it happen. I’d also like to thank my fellow councillors Spencer Flower, Simon Gibson, and Ray Bryan – all of whom have been strong supporters of this project from the beginning.”