Outline plans to create Mansfield’s first “destination park” have been unveiled in a new exhibition.

The ambitious scheme for Berry Hill Park includes new and improved accessible footpaths, a dedicated event space and a new building with a multi-functional space, café, toilets and changing rooms.

Mansfield District Council is now keen to hear what people think about the plans as part of its bid to the Government’s Towns Fund for £2.94m to improve existing facilities at the park and create new attractions.

Jon Sheaff & Associates Architects have drawn up a vision for the park and the new site layout and artist impressions of what visitor facilities, trails, walks and event spaces could look like are being installed on panels in Berry Hill Park near to the café.

They can also be viewed in an online gallery at https://assets.artplacer.com/virtual-exhibitions/?i=2082 where visitors are being encouraged to leave comments.

The plans take on board the feedback from nearly 1,000 users and fans of the beloved family park in a consultation held last year in which users were asked about their visits to the park and what facilities, features and activities they would like to see at it in the future.

Mayor Andy Abrahams said: “The response to the consultation was fantastic and by far the biggest number of participants we’ve had to any of our recent consultation activities.

“The results are really insightful and they have given the Destination Parks project team a clear steer on what is needed for the future to bring longevity and relevance to the park for future generations.

“The overwhelming majority of park users want to see improved visitor facilities such as toilets, café and parking closely followed by better play facilities for children with improved paths and trails to enhance the natural biodiversity of the area.

“At the heart of the plan for Berry Hill is our heritage, rich history and geology. This will be considered in all aspects of the development from the fabric of buildings to the materials used in the footpaths and play areas. Our natural and local environment will be reflected in the design and future use of the park.

“The aim of a Destination Park is to offer an experience that goes above and beyond what an average park would offer. It is hoped that this will draw in more visitors to the district which would boost the local economy.”

People who took part in the consultation last year are now being urged to continue to follow the project, give their feedback on the proposals through the online gallery and take part in broader focus groups that will be promoted by the council over the coming weeks.

Among the features of the park improvements are: