Devon’s ‘special’ park unveiled after major three-year £4.2m restoration

A major three-year project to restore one of Devon's most popular country parks has reached completion, following a "momentous" £4.2m investment.

The Restoring Stover Park Project, which began in 2023, has seen extensive work to revive the site’s historic features, improve biodiversity in its lake, and upgrade facilities for the public. 

To mark the milestone, a day of free family activities has been announced for Sunday 8 March, with local residents invited to explore the transformed landscape.

The project represents the most significant investment in Stover Country Park for decades. Funding was secured through a £2.1m grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with the remaining balance provided by Devon County Council and various partners.

Work has focused on environmental recovery through major improvements to the health of Stover Lake and its surrounding wildlife habitats. 

Beyond the natural landscape, the project has delivered restored historic features, the installation of a commemorative granite plinth, and significantly improved paths and trails to make the park more accessible for walkers and visitors.

While the financial investment was significant, officials say the project’s success relied heavily on local people. 

Volunteers contributed more than 5,500 hours of work over the course of the restoration, focusing specifically on the park's wildlife and heritage conservation.

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, described the completion as an "extraordinary achievement." 

She noted that the project shows what can be achieved when people and experts come together to care for a special place, adding that the park is now better protected for the future and even more welcoming for visitors.

A private event will be held this Wednesday to thank contractors and community partners, but the doors will be thrown open to the wider public the following weekend. 

The free public event takes place on Sunday 8 March between 10am and 3pm. 

Everyone is welcome to drop in to explore the improvements and take part in family-friendly activities.

The park remains a key site for Devon’s strategy on climate change and environment, acting as both a haven for local biodiversity and a vital recreational hub for the region.