WHITEHILL Town Council formally opened its Sutton Field playground at Whitehill village hall on Tuesday, following a delay caused by the discovery that part of a Bronze Age barrow extended onto the site.

The new equipment was chosen by residents at a public consultation event in February, and has been funded by the town council and East Hampshire District Council developer contributions for open space.

The project had been delayed for four months due to national legislation and guidance from Historic England about the nearby Bronze Age round barrow, which is protected under the 1979 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act.

In accordance with the law and best practice, an archaeological investigation and watching brief had to be conducted.

As a result, it is now known that traces of the perimeter ring of the barrow, which had been lost over time, extend under the original play area, which was put in many years ago.

Town council leader Adam Carew said: “This has been a fascinating exercise and Whitehill Town Council has ensured that we have taken all the correct steps to protect the heritage assets of our area.

“Our thanks go to Woolmer Forest Heritage Society president, archaeologist David Graham, and county archaeologist David Hopkins for all their support. 

“We know local children have been eagerly watching progress and we are delighted to formally open the play area for our community.”

Chris Mitchell, chairman of the town council’s amenities committee, said: “I am delighted that at last this playground is finally completed and sincerely hope that the young children will enjoy the refurbished facility for many years to come.”

Alan Waterhouse, town council member and chairman of Whitehill Village Hall, said: “The Whitehill Village Hall Management Committee is pleased to see that the playground is now open for young people of the area to enjoy and we thank the town council for the refurbishment.”