Poole Park: Connecting people and nature

Published 24 September 2026

The Project

A programme of environmental improvements is coming to Poole Park to create a greener, more accessible and welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.

Focusing on the route between Whitecliff Gate and Middle Gate, the project will improve walking, wheeling and cycling, increase opportunities to connect with nature, and enhance this important part of Poole Park while respecting its heritage and character.

What’s included?

  • New tree planting, including disease-resistant elm, giant redwood and lime species for shade and autumn colour.
  • Wildlife-friendly waterside gardens to support biodiversity and provide seasonal interest.
  • A wildlife-themed sensory bench and additional seating inspired by local nature.
  • New sensory play features extending the park’s existing play trail.
  • Resurfacing to create a smoother route for walking, wheeling and cycling.
  • Improved pedestrian crossing points with shallower and wider ramps.
  • Enhancements to the setting of the historic Whitecliff Entrance and the wider park by upgrading furniture throughout.

Plan detail

Numbered items on the plan are described below it

Plan detail

Poole Park, Middle Gate to Whitecliff Gate

Numbered items below correspond to numbering on the plan (left)

① Middle Gate entrance: Partial closure, retaining access to disabled parking spaces whilst enhancing the overall park environment and user experience.

② Crossing points: Improved crossings with shallower ramps and coloured surfacing to provide a safer, more accessible and welcoming route for all users.

③ Carriageway: New surfacing aiding cycling and all forms of micro-mobility; highway signs removed where no longer required.

④ Whitecliff Gate entrance: Upgraded surfacing and bollards to enhance the setting of the historic entrance, making it more welcoming.

⑤ Artful bench & start of play-on-the-way: A wildlife-themed bench and opportunities for play inspired by local nature and nautical history, designed for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

⑥ Tree planting: New trees for shade along the route and to enhance the natural character of the lake’s area.

⑦ Waterside gardens: Biodiverse planting to manage surface water, improve habitats and to increase greening and seasonal interest (cross-section below).

A greener, more people-focused space
Vehicle access will continue to be limited to disabled parking only, helping to create a quieter and safer environment.

Maintaining Access
Visitors will continue to be able to access Poole Park by car, public transport, on foot and by bicycle.

Anticipated programme of works

  • October/November – Improvements to the causeway (6 weeks);
  • November/December – Planting of the waterside gardens and tree planting;
  • December – Installation of seating and play features.

Project details

Budget £250,000
Funding  Active Travel England Fund
Project Lead BCP Council Parks Project team and Sustainable Travel team
Construction BCP Council Highways Delivery Unit & Landscape Construction Team
E. greenspaces@bcpcouncil.gov.uk