Families and children in Smannell Parish are celebrating the opening of a brand-new play area at Stephen’s Field in Little London, Andover.
Thanks to months of planning, community support, and a £17K grant from Test Valley Borough Council’s Community Asset Fund (CAF), the new space now features a slide, swings, roundabout, a climbing frame, and a basketball goal—all with top-quality safety surfaces.
Smannell Parish Council led the project, following local consultations that showed strong community demand after the previous play area was closed. With additional funding from Smannell Parish Council, local fundraising, and The Oak Public House, this once unused space has been transformed into a first-class play area for young people and families to enjoy for years to come.
Ward Councillor Phil North praised the new play area, saying: “This project is a fantastic example of what we can achieve together as a community. It’s wonderful to see such an exciting, safe space created for children and families to enjoy. I’m proud that Test Valley Borough Council could play a part in bringing this vision to life for Little London.”
Parish Council Chair, Paul Dunning, shared his pride in the project: “We are thrilled to bring a wonderful new play area to the parish. Thanks to the invaluable support of our community, we’ve been able to create a safe, exciting space that we can all be proud of. This new area will be a fantastic resource for children, families and all who visit.”
Families in Smannell Parish have already shown their enthusiasm for the new play area, including local parents Gavin and Kayleigh Burgess, who attended the opening with their daughter, Elle-Mae.
“Elle-Mae couldn’t wait to try out the new slide and climbing frame,” Gavin said. “This is a place she’ll be able to enjoy for years, and it’s so lovely to have somewhere local where she can play safely.”
Test Valley Borough Council’s Community Asset Fund grant is open to community organisations in Test Valley for projects like this, which aim to improve, acquire or build a new community asset. Eligible projects can receive up to 50% of their costs, up to £25,000. For more information on the Community Asset Fund, visit www.testvalley.gov.uk/caf.
To enquire about the CAF grant or other opportunities, contact your local community engagement officer at www.testvalley.gov.uk/ceofficers
