COMMUNITY engagement is the key to shaping a multi-million-pound redevelopment of Basingstoke’s Leisure Park.

That is the message this week from NewRiver REIT Plc, the company tasked with delivering a £300 million redevelopment of the site.

In the six months since NewRiver signed the agreement with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, the firm said it has been exploring all options that could feasibly be delivered on the park.

Director of commercial development at NewRiver, Jamie Whitfield, said that everything is in its “embryonic” stages of what is to be a “long-term project.”

Mr Whitfield said: “We really want to make the Leisure Park a destination that is a huge benefit for everyone.

“We don’t just want a normal cinema, bowling alley and things like that. We really think we can do some great things on this site and we are exploring every option possible.”

In formulating how the new-look park will be presented, NewRiver is to host three community events where representatives from the firm will hear what residents would like to see.

Mr Whitfield added: “This is an opportunity for them [residents] to see this is an incredibly exciting development.

“This whole process is all about reimagining rather than just reworking what is already in place. We have some rough ideas of what we would like to see but this is a long-term project for the people in Basingstoke and those who will be visiting the town.”

Mr Whitfield said NewRiver is looking to introduce elements to the Leisure Park that have not been seen in the UK and is looking to utilise the latest in virtual reality technology and extreme sports.

As previously reported in the Gazette, funds will be invested into the borough council-owned Aquadrome, as well as delivering an outlet retail park on the site.

It is pledged the development will become a destination of choice for the south of England, contributing to the long-term vision of Basingstoke.

The community engagement events will be held on October 5 in Castle Square, on October 6 at The Malls, opposite Deichmann Shoes, and on October 7 at the Aquadrome.

Borough council cabinet member for property and development Councillor John Izett said: “When people think about the best in ‘day out’ attractions, they think about different types of experiences either in the UK or further field, depending on how they like to spend their freetime and how far they are willing to travel.

“In the future, the plan is that Basingstoke will be the place to come to for the best and latest leisure experiences and excitement in the UK. We want the best for our residents and this fantastic new leisure park and designer outlet centre will be right here on the doorstep. Importantly, this project will bring other benefits, including 2,000 jobs.”

“Our selected partner, NewRiver, is showing how ambitious and ground breaking their ideas are. I urge people to go along to the drop-in sessions to get inspired about just what could be possible and give their views on what they would like the leisure park to offer in the future.”