Consultation over pavilion plans

A proposed pavilion will include a restaurant and community space

Residents have given their views on a regeneration project set to transform a Berkshire public park.

West Berkshire Council wants to regenerate Victoria Park in Newbury with a new two-storey pavilion featuring a 100-seat performance area.

But there has been a mixed reaction from some residents who are opposed to developers moving in on green space.

Plans featuring models of the park and the new development have been on display at Newbury Library.

The proposals also include a new restaurant, waterside inn and a public square in front of the museum.

'Dreams are made'

Councillor Pamela Bale, executive member for the Newbury Vision, said: " It would bring an exciting design into the Victoria Park, enhancing what is a very unique location, providing an upgrade to facilities for park users, not to take anything away from them."

Residents have been encouraged to give their views on the proposals as part of a council consultation.

Resident Allan Mercado remembers playing football in the park with friends when he was child and told the BBC it should be left as it is.

"Everybody needs that area just to walk, sit down, picnic with the kids, play football and dream a little - it will be gone.

"I have a lot of serious concerns about the plans. It will be a loss to the town of this lovely park, a park where boys and girls' dreams are made."