Residents and visitors to Maidenhead can make the most of the borough’s newest park during the Easter break as an 86 acre extension to Ockwells Park opens to the public.

The green space includes a series of new walkways through parkland and woods offering routes taking from 30 minutes to an hour, an ideal way to get active this spring.

It can be accessed from the existing entrance to Ockwells Park off Ockwells Road or through three new entrances located along the bridleway between Holyport and Cox Green. The car park opposite the pavilion has also been expanded.

The Royal Borough purchased the land, part of Thrift Wood Farm, last summer for £725,000 and has designated it as public open space as part of the emerging Borough Local Plan.

Cllr Samantha Rayner, cabinet member for culture and communities, said: “I am delighted the recent purchase of Thrift Wood Farm will give our residents and visitors more public open space to enjoy.

“The Royal Borough recognises the importance of having beautiful parks and countryside to enjoy in improving the health and wellbeing of everyone. Ockwells Park and Thrift Wood offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a park rich in nature.

“It is positively blooming at this time of year with wildflowers and blossoming trees that can be enjoyed by everyone and would make a perfect day trip during the Easter break.

“The new walking routes are an excellent way to get your bearings and take in the wonderful views and offer a fun way to get active in this beautiful woodland setting.”

The site has been completely cleared of equipment from the previous owner and a bridge over The Cut has been repaired and made accessible. Leaflets offering further details of the new walking routes will be available from the onsite café.

Further work, including the installation of benches, will take place in the coming weeks followed by a formal opening ceremony next month.