PLANS to carry out an £82,000 refurbishment at a park in Poole have moved forward following a public consultation.

People who use Alexandra Park were asked to give their views on improvements to the area. While the majority of respondents were satisfied with the current quality of the trees, footpaths, and general landscape, most were unhappy with the park’s security, lighting, benches, bins, and outdoor sports equipment.

Almost half of people said the youth shelter was not being used appropriately, primarily because of anti-social behaviour.

One resident commented: “My son and I have been in receipt of offensive verbal abuse from some of the youngsters who hang out here. I would suggest that there is CCTV overlooking this area - or some form of security.”

Meanwhile, others complained they felt intimidated by people drinking and drug dealing in the area.

Poole council is planning to bring new play equipment to the area and carry out renovation work with funding from developer contributions.

Some of the current equipment is nearly 30 years old and is showing “distinct signs of wear and tear” according to the council.

Works will also be undertaken to boost “feelings of security and well-being” among park visitors.

The project will also see current signage updated, existing benches renovated, and bins relocated. Tree and shrub works will be carried out.

In the consultation, members of the public were also asked what they thought the best use of the pavilion building would be.

The majority of people thought a cafe would be a good use of the space and felt it would also be an opportunity to reintroduce toilets.

They also thought the café could even accommodate space for a youth centre and classes such as yoga or dance.

The council is looking to form a ‘friends of’ group that will partner with the authority in the management and decision-making process “of this important local green space”.

“Previous projects have vastly improved the park’s entrances and infrastructure and also the feel of being within an open space that has character and history,” the council added on a web page detailing the project.