Waverley Park improvements on track for autumn opening

Preston’s first pump track, a new playground, pavilion and multi-use games area at Waverley Park are all on track to open this autumn.

Work on the £2.7 million improvements to Waverley Park, which began in May, remains on track, with contractor Eric Wright Civil Engineering currently on site.

A new, and Preston’s first, pump track is nearing completion, while a new pavilion is being built following the demolition of the former building. Improvements to the play area are also under way, with new equipment being installed for children to enjoy for years to come.

Councillor Valerie Wise, Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Community Wealth Building, said: “It is fantastic to see the improvements at Waverley Park taking shape and progressing well. The new facilities will make a real difference to local residents, giving children, young people and families more opportunities to play, be active and enjoy this important community space.

“At this point, areas of the park are still closed to the public as this is still a construction site. We hope that we can reveal an opening date soon.”

Councillor Connor Dwyer, Cabinet Member for Parks and Community Safety, said: “We are proud of Preston’s parks and green spaces, and this significant investment demonstrates our commitment to improving them for communities across the city.

‘’The transformation of Waverley Park will create a welcoming, high-quality park that residents can enjoy now and for generations to come.”

Gavin Hulme, Managing Director at Eric Wright Civil Engineering, said: “It’s great to see the progress being made at Waverley Park and to watch the vision for the project start to take shape. The new facilities, including the pump track, a new pavilion, an upgraded play area and multi-use games area, will provide something for people of all ages to enjoy.

“As we move closer to completion, our focus is on delivering the remaining works to the highest standard and creating a welcoming space that will bring lasting benefits to the local community. We’re looking forward to seeing residents make the most of these fantastic new facilities for many years to come.”

Other notable improvements to the park will include the remodeling of the car park, creating 12 additional spaces and bringing the total to 32, as well as wider footpaths, new landscaping and the refurbishment of three football pitches.

The project is funded by the UK Government through £20 million Levelling Up Fund awarded to Preston City Council, with further funding from Big Local and the Football Foundation. The Levelling Up Fund was established to reduce geographical inequalities by investing in infrastructure and regeneration and has since been consolidated into the Local Regeneration Fund.

Waverley Park is also benefiting from additional support through the Fishwick and St Matthews Big Local FAM project, part of the Big Local Trust, which is helping to fund community-led improvements.