Vigo Park’s new play area swings into action after community-led revamp
Andover’s newest play area at Vigo Park is officially opening this weekend (4 October) bringing a vibrant, inclusive space shaped by the community and designed to inspire imagination and adventure to the town centre.
The new Wild Park play area features an animal-themed design, complete with thrilling slides, swings, wheelchair-accessible trampolines, role play zones, and a spectacular rope climbing dome. It’s been created with accessibility at its heart, ensuring children of all abilities can enjoy the space together.
The project was led by Test Valley Borough Council, working closely with local residents, disability groups and charities including Koala and Purple Oak Support. Feedback from hundreds of people helped shape the final designs, which were brought to life by playground specialists KOMPAN.
The opening was slightly delayed due to white asbestos being found buried underneath the ground when work to lay the foundations began. A specialist company helped to remove the building material and checked the rest of the site to ensure it would be safe for children and families to enjoy.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “The new park looks amazing, and I’m really pleased that the designs were been shaped by our residents and user groups. We’re very sorry to residents about the delayed opening, unfortunately it was out of our control, but we’ve been working hard to get it open as soon as possible.
“Vigo Park is well loved and well used, but our residents told us they wanted an inviting play area for their children to enjoy – and I’m delighted that we have been able to deliver on that.”
Local councillor, Iris Andersen, added: “It’s been brilliant to work alongside my fellow ward councillors, Debbie Cattell and Jan Budzynski, to help bring this fantastic new play area to life. We’re proud to have supported a project that’s been shaped by local voices and designed for everyone to enjoy. The feedback from groups like Koala and Purple Oak Support has been really encouraging, and we’re grateful for their input.”
The play area has been designed with clear sightlines and age-specific zones to support safety and confidence-building. It also includes assistive communication boards to help children with additional needs navigate and enjoy the space.