Rowley Park Revamp: Physical Work Starts on Multi-Million Pound Project

The long-awaited transformation of Rowley Park Sports Stadium is officially in motion. Following extensive public consultations with hundreds of local residents and schoolchildren, preparatory work to enhance the park's infrastructure began on Monday, 23 February 2026.

Main entrance to Rowley Park

The Current Phase: Entrance and Access

The current stage of the project is a six-week preliminary phase focused on the park's main entrance, gates, and internal roadway. This infrastructure work is essential to facilitate the heavier development planned for later this year.

To ensure the safety of visitors while the main gate is under construction, several temporary measures have been put in place:

• Pedestrian Access: A temporary pedestrian pathway has been installed at the main entrance for continued access.

• Extended Hours: Pedestrian gates will remain open for extended hours during this six-week period. They are open until 9:45 pm (21:45) Monday to Thursday, and until 8:45 pm (20:45) on Fridays.

• Parking Restrictions: Parking spaces are currently extremely limited. Visitors are being encouraged to lift-share or use active travel methods where possible.

The £1.2m Initial Refurbishment

The council has allocated £1.2 million for the initial phase of the project, which is scheduled to start later this year. This funding has been secured through developer contributions (Section 106 money) from local housing developments.

Key features of the first major phase include:

• A much-improved, inclusive play area designed in consultation with disability groups.

• A brand new "learn to ride" facility for young cyclists.

• New outdoor gym equipment.

• Enhanced seating, pathways, and significant woodland planting.

  
  

The Vision for the Future

This is just the beginning of a broader multi-million pound masterplan. As further funding becomes available, future stages are expected to introduce a wheeled sports area, a new community sports hub, modern changing rooms, public toilets, and refurbished tennis courts.

For a full breakdown of the long-term vision for Rowley Park and what to expect in the coming years, you can read our detailed guide to the destination park project here.