Planning approval paves the way for Vigo Park transformation
Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) has welcomed the decision by the Northern Area Planning Committee to approve plans for major improvements at Vigo Park.
The plans include a new splash pad designed to provide an accessible water play experience, a modern pavilion that will serve both Andover Bowling Club and the wider community, public toilets, a refreshment kiosk and a range of landscaping and accessibility improvements.
The project forms part of the council's wider regeneration programme in Andover, helping to create attractive public spaces, support healthy lifestyles and bring people together.
The council has worked closely with residents, community groups, accessibility organisations and other partners to shape the plans. Feedback from this work led to a number of changes to the final design, including the addition of a fourth public toilet cubicle, a Changing Places toilet and refinements to the location of the water play area.
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: "This is fantastic news for Andover and for everyone who enjoys spending time in Vigo Park.
"Planning approval means we can now move forward with a project that will deliver modern facilities, improve accessibility and create more opportunities for recreation and community activities.
"Vigo Park already plays a vital role in the life of our town, and these improvements will help ensure it continues to serve residents for generations to come.
"Thank you to everyone who shared their views during the consultation process. Their feedback has played an important role in shaping the designs."
The project builds on the success of the park's accessible play area, which opened in 2025 and has quickly become a popular attraction for families from across Andover and beyond.
Councillor Iris Andersen, ward member for Andover St Mary's, said: "I'm delighted to see this project approved. The splash pad will be a wonderful addition to Vigo Park, giving families another reason to enjoy this much-loved community space."
The new pavilion will provide modern facilities for Andover Bowling Club, whose existing clubhouse no longer meets the needs of its growing membership, while also creating flexible community space for local groups and organisations.
A spokesperson for Andover Bowling Club said: "We're thrilled that planning permission has been approved and we’re grateful to everyone who has helped bring the project to this stage.
"The new pavilion will provide much-needed modern facilities for our members while creating opportunities for local groups to use the space. We look forward to seeing the difference these improvements will make for park users now and in the future."
The council expects work to start later this year and aims to open the new facilities in autumn 2027.
The Vigo Park project is part of a wider programme of work across the borough, which includes improvements to parks and open spaces, projects that support health and wellbeing, and initiatives that help communities enhance local facilities.