Millions to be spent on projects across the New Forest

Big money is about to be spent on Totton and Lymington, while plans for Ringwood and Milford‑on‑Sea are quietly pushed back.

New Forest District Council cabinet papers set out a package of “strategic” projects funded from developer contributions, with a new civic square in Totton and a revamped waterfront park in Lymington at the front of the queue.

Four schemes are earmarked for public consultation, followed by detailed design, with construction pencilled in for 2027 and 2028 if everything goes to plan.

Together they will cost approximately £3.6 million in works and more than £600,000 in professional fees.

In Totton, the headline scheme is a complete makeover of the grassed area between the library, civic offices, police station and Precinct shopping centre.

Council reports state that the space is underused and does not give Totton a clear “civic heart”.

Under the proposals, the area would be transformed into a paved square with room for markets, an outdoor cinema, performances and community events.

A raised table and new crossings would slow traffic and give people more priority, while existing mature trees would be kept and built into the design alongside new seating, lighting, cycle parking and planting.

Speaking on the plans, Cllr David Harrison, Liberal Democrat for Totton South, said he supports the changes.

Cllr David Harrison (Image: David Harrison)

He said: “Most towns have a central meeting point which can be used for all sorts of gatherings. These might include a market, various entertainment events, even a singsong at Christmas time.

“Totton doesn’t have a High Street or central point that can be used in this way. It is a way of putting a heart back into the town.”

Cllr Harrison added: “There are a few issues yet to be determined, including who will be responsible for maintaining the area, but I see it as a big improvement.”

Lymington’s Bath Road Recreation Ground is also in line for a major facelift.

The new scheme would strip out failing structures, install modern play equipment and reshape paths and seating to create more flexible space for small events and everyday leisure.

There are plans for better pedestrian safety and access, plus landscape and biodiversity improvements, to make the park more attractive for residents and visitors and cut long‑term maintenance costs.

By contrast, much larger schemes at Ringwood Market Place and Milford‑on‑Sea’s promenade are being treated more cautiously, with detailed work and decisions on their future pushed further down the line.

Despite potential delays, Cllr Alvin Reid, Conservative for Milford, said he is hopeful that cabinet members will make “the best decision for the long-term benefit” of residents.

A decision will be made by members on August 5, with recommendations made to approve the proposals.