Work has begun on breathing life into Eastleigh’s planned green lung
Part of Stoke Park Farm is being developed into a public green space
Work has begun on breathing life into Eastleigh’s planned green lung.
Stoke Park Farm is set within 103 hectares on the outskirts of Bishopstoke and borders Stoke Park Woods in the south. It is owned and operated by Eastleigh Borough Council.
Planning permission was obtained in January 2021 to develop part of the site into a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) with associated access, footpaths, landscaping, ecological features, and street furniture to mitigate against the impact of increased visits to the New Forest.
Once complete, access to the SANG can be found by walking or cycling via Stoke Park Woods, Sewall Drive, Upperbarn Copse and Crowdhill Copse. Should residents wish to visit by Car, parking will be available at Bishopstoke Cemetery extension & the SANG car park.
Works have begun on site with a view to opening the SANG to the public in the summer. Hedgerow and Tree planting will be taking place separate to this in the late Autumn to coincide with planting seasons. The scheme includes a recreational space with a circular walking route, rich grassland planting as well as additional sections of hedgerow and tree planting. There is a centralised focal point with seating and a range of ecological enhancements across site including log piles, hibernaculum’s, bird and bat boxes.
Features of the proposed design:
- New native planted hedgerows and a welcoming seating space
- New walking and access routes
- Habitat wet grassland for bird and invertebrate species
Anyone interested in finding out more about the proposed SANG can view all the relevant planning documents via the online planning portal using reference: F/23/95844