New Forest District Council invites residents to shape plans for recreation ground in Lymington
New Forest District Council (NFDC) and Lymington and Pennington Town Council are inviting residents to help shape ambitious plans for the future of Bath Road recreation ground in Lymington.
The proposed project would help to transform Bath Road recreation ground in Lymington into a more accessible, welcoming and flexible community space.
The vision is to create a space that better serves local people, supports community wellbeing and can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Proposed improvements include a larger, enclosed playground with new accessible play equipment and picnic areas; wider, more accessible pathways linking the town, car park, marina and seafront; a performance space replacing the existing bandstand, suitable for events and recreation; and an improved biodiversity through new planting, trees, hedging and landscaping.
This project is funded through NFDC’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) programme, which is investing in projects across the district to improve public spaces, recreation opportunities and community infrastructure, and would look to be delivered in 2027.
Cllr Derek Tipp, portfolio holder for planning and economy, said: “The suggested improvements in Lymington are part of a series of proposed major community infrastructure projects across the district as part of our strategic community infrastructure levy programme. This project, among others, will help to improve public spaces, and enhance recreation opportunities, creating real benefits for residents and visitors. We encourage people to submit their views and let us know what you think about the proposals."
Cllr Colm McCarthy, Chair of Lymington and Pennington Town Council, said: “Bath Road Recreation Ground is a much-loved part of Lymington, and we are really looking forward to hearing from residents, visitors and everyone who uses the area about what they would like to see for its future. This is a great opportunity to help shape a space that can be enjoyed by our community and visitors for many years to come.”
Before the project progresses to its next stage, NFDC and Lymington and Pennington Town Council would like to hear thoughts from residents about the proposed changes.
Residents, visitors and businesses are invited to find out more about the proposals and provide feedback at an in-person event at Lymington Town Hall on Wednesday 30 September from 10.30am to 7pm.
Feedback and comments can also be submitted online between 28 September and 21 October 2026, through the consultation page at https://newforest.govocal.com/en-GB/projects/lymington-bath-road
Contact Information
Communications Team
communications@nfdc.gov.uk
Notes to editors
The Bath Road improvements are part of a series of proposed major community infrastructure projects. NFDC’s Cabinet agreed the next steps for these in August 2026. More details about this, and other projects, can be found at https://www.newforest.gov.uk/article/4287/Cabinet-supports-next-phase-to-progress-major-community-projects
The Strategic CIL programme was established in 2023 to invest developer contributions in infrastructure projects that support sustainable communities and help meet the needs arising from growth across the district. More information is available at https://democracy.newforest.gov.uk/documents/s26960/CIL%20Report.pdf
Planned Maintenance programme, carriageway resurfacing will be carried out in Sway Road, Lymington
As part of Hampshire County Council’s annual Planned Maintenance programme, carriageway resurfacing will be carried out in Sway Road, Lymington on a couple of sections from junction with A337 Lyndhurst Road to 40m into Sway Road and approx. 80m either side of the entrance into Buckland Granaries.
The works are scheduled to begin early next year, and further information will be sent out nearer the time, but prior to those works we need to carry out some preliminary works on the section near the entrance into Buckland Granaries.
These are programmed to begin on 29th September 2026 and are programmed to take up to 5 days between 09:30 to 16:00. The road will be open outside these hours and at the weekend.
Further details are available at One.Network - https://one.network/?GB151566221
Grant Aid Applications Now Open – Supporting Our Local Community
Lymington and Pennington Town Council is proud to open this year’s round of Grant Aid applications. Every year, these grants help local organisations to continue their fantastic work, from running clubs and events to providing essential services which bring real benefits to residents of all ages.
We know how much of our community’s strength comes from dedicated volunteers and groups who give their time, energy, and creativity. That is why the Town Council remains committed to supporting these efforts through its grant programme. Whether your organisation provides opportunities for young people, promotes health and wellbeing, supports vulnerable residents, or enhances local culture and environment, we want to hear from you. Please refer to our Grant Policy for details.
Key details for applicants:
Deadline: Applications must be received by 31 October 2026.
Updated Policy: The Grants Policy was amended earlier this year. It is important that all organisations read the new criteria before applying to confirm eligibility and prepare the necessary documents. You can access the policy here: Grant Policy 2026–2027.
Review Process: All applications will be assessed by the Grants Panel, who will then make recommendations to the full Council.
Payment of Grants: Awards will form part of the Council’s 2026–2027 budget and will be paid to successful organisations in between December 2026 and March 2027.
We encourage all eligible organisations to apply. Together, we can ensure that the wonderful projects, services, and opportunities which enrich Lymington and Pennington continue to grow and flourish.
Please see Grant Policy for more information
Application Form (please read the Policy before completing the form)
Lymington and Pennington Town Council extends a warm welcome to our international visitors from Mosbach, Germany.
At a reception held at the Town Hall on Thursday, the Mayor took the opportunity to officially welcome our guests along with presenting a gift of engraved glass tumblers as a token of international friendship.
The visitors are being home hosted around Lymington and Pennington by members of LITA and will enjoy a weekend of activities around the local area before leaving on Monday.
Thanks is given to Lymington and District Twinning Association (LITA) for their hard work organising the exchange visit.
In the spirit of fostering international relations, Lymington and Pennington is twinned with Mosbach in Germany, Alamansa in Spain and Vitré in France. The twinning link with Mosbach dates back thirty years to 1996.
Anyone looking for further information on LITA or Twin Towns generally is directed to the Lymington Community Association’s Annual Directory or LITA’s own website www.lymingtontwinning.weebly.com
