NEW paths worth nearly £15,000 are being installed as part of renovation work in a Brookvale playing field.

Ageing tarmac and concrete pathways in King George V Playing Fields, behind Morrison’s in Deep Lane, have been modified to allow better access to people using the parks.

Before Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) granted permission for £14,729.90 to be spent on rebuilding the footpaths, residents who used the park complained that using wheelchairs and pushchairs had proved difficult for some users.

The paths will be installed with Cellweb, a product that allows roots from trees to continue to grow and not be affected by concrete.

Labour ward councillor for Brookvale and Kings Furlong, Cllr Mike Westbrook said: “After several residents complained about a damaged and dangerous footpath in King George V Playing Fields, getting it replaced has been a walk in the park.

“Unlike most footpaths in Basingstoke, the maintenance of this one is the responsibility of our local council and not Hampshire County Council.

“That therefore gave us the ability to make the necessary improvements for our residents.

“It will look like any other path, but in fact it is a trial product that the council hope will give us a longer lasting pathway.”

Cellweb is installed under tarmac areas that are adjacent to trees, to protect any roots and offer a degree of flexibility to the top surface.

The system is permeable; allowing water and air to get to the tree’s roots.

Cllr Westbrook believes the work will be concluded by the end of the month.

BDBC’s cabinet member for planning and infrastructure Cllr Mark Ruffell said: “The council has started to lay a new path at King George V Playing Fields following concern from residents over the poor condition of the existing path. 

“The new path will be much more hard wearing without damaging the surrounding area.”