£20 million investment for Preston’s parks and travel infrastructure (Levelling Up Fund 2)
Two projects will support Preston’s ambitions for a healthier, more inclusive, and connected city.
Regeneration of Preston’s major parks
Levelling Up funding will regenerate 4 of Preston’s major parks.
Ashton Park will become a community facility for sports and activities including:
- a new 3G pitch, a full-size grass pitch and 5 junior grass pitches
- a new pavilion for sports, community and charity use
- improvements to foot and cycle paths
The Grade II listed Moor Park is the oldest and largest of Preston’s parks. Funding will be used to:
- restore the historic Serpentine Lake
- reinstate bridges, railings, loggia structures and build new water fountains
- plant more trees and restore horticultural features
- upgrade the events stage
- improve public toilets, play areas and park furniture
Waverley Park will be upgraded with:
- an improved games area
- an additional skate park, bicycle pump track and football pavilion
- parking improvements, new pathways, furniture and signage
Grange Park in East Preston will also be improved with better lighting and accessibility to the Heritage and Interpretation Centre.
Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety said:
This investment won’t just improve the park, it will transform the area. Subject to planning permission being secured, we are creating a brand new, publicly owned community hub that will deliver a range of services and improve the quality of life for local residents, grassroots sports clubs and the wider Preston community.
Preston travel improvements
Funding will also be used to help improve travel throughout Preston. These include:
- public realm upgrades to Friargate South and a new cycling route to the University of Central Lancashire
- a new cycle track on Avenham Lane/Queen Street
- replacing the existing tram bridge across the river Ribble with a new Ribble cycle and pedestrian bridge
- secure parking at Preston Bus Station
The travel improvements will better connect communities to businesses, education, transport, culture and leisure, including its major parks.
Find out more about Levelling Up