A major multi-million-pound transformation of a popular country park is nearing completion.

Itchen Valley Country Park is set to see improved play equipment and walking trails as part of a £3 million improvement scheme at the 440-acre site in West End.

Although a specific completion date is to be confirmed by the council, visitors can expect to see more changes soon.

“Almost all the planned elements have now been completed and the project has brought exciting features that are making the park more versatile for a range of events and activities,” a council spokesperson said.

Among the improvements are new play equipment, both for small children near the Highwood Barn, which opened last September, and older children in the top field, including a zip wire and a trail with play sculptures.

Also included are a covered outdoor seating area for customers of the Woodland Café, a central events/market and welcoming space at Highwood Barn, a new community building at High Hill Field, refurbishment of Highwood Barn and Kingfisher Barn, and a network of walking, wheeling and biking trails, including and avenue for "quiet contemplation".

There will also be barbecue and picnic areas.

READ MORE: New play areas in Itchen Valley Country Park transformation

A spokesperson from the council said: “The final elements of the major transformation of Itchen Valley Country Park are close to completion.

“The works, which got under way in May 2023 have brought an exciting range of new features designed to make it an even better visitor attraction for all the family – and a tranquil destination that plays an important role in the wellbeing of residents.”

They added: “The improvements have provided greater accessibility, with a network of circular accessible nature trails, a Changing Places room for disabled users, as well as additional toilets.

“Car parking has also been upgraded with an improved payment system which will go live in the coming weeks.

“Soft landscaping introducing native trees and planting will commence in the autumn completing this exciting project.

“The team worked hard to keep disruption to a minimum during construction and we’d like to thank our brilliant visitors for their understanding while the work took place.”