Will the park remain open during construction?
Yes, careful planning will keep as much of the park accessible as possible while signage
and fencing/hoardings will be used for visitor safety.
Will the car park charge increase?
As part of the project we will be reviewing the car parking charges at the park to bring them in line with other parks in the area.
What will happen to the old play area, located in the site of the new car park?
It will be decommissioned as planned due to its age and condition. New accessible play equipment has already been installed elsewhere in the park. However, our iconic slide will remain!
What measures are in place to protect wildlife during works?
Contractors delivering the programme of works will adhere to strict environmental guidelines that include seasonal restrictions. This will ensure minimal disruption to habitats and wildlife during key migration periods.
Will the cafe or Countryside Centre close during the build?
There may be temporary closures. We’ll give notice and try to minimise disruption.
When will bookings open for the extended Countryside Centre?
Details will be released closer to project completion (expected summer 2026).
Want to get involved in the Park?
The Friends group aims to help the rangers in their work of maintaining and improving the park.
We aim to promote the use and enjoyment of Hinchingbrooke Country Park and organise fund raising activities and seek grants to increase funds available for new and ongoing projects. Find out more.
When will the project be completed?
The project is scheduled to be completed in 2026.
How much is the full scheme costing?
There is a budget of £2.9 million. Other funding sources continue to be investigated to ensure the quality of the outcome remains high.
What is Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)?
CIL is a charge that local authorities can set on new development to raise funds to help fund the infrastructure, facilities and services needed to support new homes and businesses.
This can be used on significant projects and, for the country park, can be used in areas that our consultation has revealed to be important to users. This includes play areas, safety fencing, lighting, surveys, pathways and planting.
How many additional parking spaces will there be after the project is completed?
There will be over 200 car parking spaces available in the new car park. This will include dedicated motorbike parking, blue badge holder spaces and cycle racks. Spaces will be wider and EV charging will be available. More payment points will be added and there will be closer and easier access to the cafe. The existing car park will be marked with lines identifying approximately 70 spaces as this will encourage better parking.
What will the new cafe opening times be?
This will vary during the seasons, but there will be opportunities for evening events as the improved lighting and closer car park facilities will make the site more appealing during the evenings.
How are you encouraging improvements in health?
The paths will be upgraded for a smoother ride for those in wheelchairs and pushchairs, to ensure everyone can benefit their mental health by enjoying the outdoors.
Active travel is positively encouraged - the bike storage facilities will be increased for users on site. There will be additional locations next to the play areas too. The signage indicating routes through the park is being upgraded and maps of the local area will be produced.
The location of the play zones encourages families to walk further between the areas.
The frequency and range of activities on offer will increase as there will be more parking.
In 2023 the first ever Santa's Grotto specifically for deaf children took place and the weekend for young people with additional needs was a huge success, with children from both groups being inspired.
The established foundations for volunteer placements continue to be expanded to involve people of all ages and abilities.