One of the town's best loved parks is getting a half a million pound makeover - with new play areas, skate parks and gym equipment to be installed.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council have announced that construction for a new £495,000 scheme has got underway in War Memorial Park.

It will see a new children's play area, skate park, upgraded pump track, parkour park and outdoor gym equipment.

Cabinet Member for Planning, Infrastructure and Natural Environment Cllr Mark Ruffell said: “The start of the construction work on the new leisure and play facilities marks an exciting new era for War Memorial Park.

“The local community will benefit from the new children’s play area, a parkour park and gym for keep fit enthusiasts and the new skate park and pump track – there will be lots going on and plenty of choice.

“This investment by the council shows our commitment to enhancing our parks and green spaces for everybody to enjoy."

Construction is expected to take around six weeks, and is to be in the same location as the present facilities in the park.

The existing BMX track will be replaced by the new pump track which can be used by bike and scooter riders and skateboards, and is attracting a £45,000 grant from British Cycling.

A parkour park is also being built to provide an obstacle course for climbing, running and jumping – and new outdoor gym equipment will also be installed at the park.