Making a splash: plans submitted for new water play area and community facilities at Vigo Park
Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) has submitted a planning application for a host of major improvements to Vigo Park, representing a significant £3.5 million investment to enhance one of Andover’s most popular green spaces.
The design includes a new splash pad, a modern clubhouse with community space, public toilets and a refreshment kiosk, alongside wider landscaping and accessibility improvements designed to make the park more welcoming and enjoyable for residents and visitors.
The proposals build on the successful opening of Vigo Park’s accessible new play area last year and form part of the council’s wider vision to improve the accessibility, usability and attractiveness of the park for residents and visitors of all ages.
The planning application follows several years of engagement with local residents, community groups and stakeholders to shape the plans. They have consistently highlighted the need for improved facilities, water play, food and drink provision, public toilets, more places to meet and socialise, and continued investment in accessibility and maintenance.
Most recently, the council carried out a focused programme of engagement in early 2026. This included meetings with key stakeholders, accessibility and inclusivity workshops, an online survey and a series of drop-in sessions at a pop-up shop in the Chantry Centre. The feedback received led to several changes to the proposals, including the addition of a fourth public toilet cubicle, a Changing Places toilet and refinements to the location of the water play area.
The project forms part of the council’s wider commitment to regenerate Andover, draw new people into the town centre and deliver priorities set out in both the Andover Masterplan and the Vigo Park Management Plan.
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “Last year, we opened a new accessible play area in Vigo Park, which has already become a popular destination for families. These proposals build on that investment and represent the next stage in our long-term vision for the park.
“Residents have helped shape the plans throughout the process, and their feedback has directly influenced the final designs. The result is a scheme that will provide better facilities, create new opportunities for recreation and community activity, and help ensure Vigo Park continues to thrive as one of Andover’s most valued green spaces.”
Councillor Iris Andersen, ward member for Andover St Mary’s, said: “Local people have told us what matters most to them, and it’s great to see that reflected in the plans that have now been submitted.
“The proposed improvements will create a more welcoming, accessible and inclusive space for residents and visitors, while supporting the future of the bowls club and strengthening Vigo Park’s role at the heart of the community.”
The proposed new pavilion will provide modern facilities for Andover Bowling Club, whose current pavilion no longer meets the needs of the club and its members. The new facility will support the club’s long-term future while also creating a flexible community hub for wider public use.
A spokesperson for Andover Bowling Club said: “We’re delighted to see the planning application submitted. Our current pavilion has served the club well for many years, but our increased membership means that we have outgrown it. The proposed new facility will provide modern amenities that will help support the club’s future.
“We’ve enjoyed working closely with the council to help shape the plans, and it’s exciting to see a project that will benefit both the club and the wider community. The new pavilion will create a welcoming hub at the heart of Vigo Park and help make the park an even better place to visit.”
The planning decision is expected in autumn 2026. Subject to planning approval, the council expects construction to start later this year, with the new facilities due to open in autumn 2027.
The Vigo Park improvements are part of a wider programme of investment TVBC is delivering to create lasting benefits for communities across the borough. Alongside the £3.5 million investment in Vigo Park, the council is supporting projects that enhance parks and open spaces, improve health and wellbeing in partnership with the NHS, and help communities improve local facilities.