A TRANQUIL and picturesque site near Andover has been reopened to the public following several months of enhancement works.

Chilbolton Parish Council has been hard at work over the last year, implementing several significant enhancements to the cherished Cow Common, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) under the management and support of Natural England.

Autumn saw the commencement of a crucial project by the Wessex Rivers Trust, aimed at improving the river's health and flow.

Erosion along the banks was a pressing issue, but thanks to the construction of timber and brash berms at intervals, the river now meanders gracefully.

READ MORE: Test Valley council funds Chilbolton Village Hall Lunch Club

This deliberate design allows for fast-flowing deep areas and slow-flowing shallow ones, facilitating the growth of water plants.

Additional improvements include the removal of dangerous wooden boarding on the north side of Purlygig Bridge and the creation of a new, safe-sloping gravel area.

The inclusion of ladder boards and new information boards at the Joys Lane entrance and Long Bridge on the Wherwell side will help educate visitors about the conservation area.

A parish council spokesperson said: "The difficult car park issues have been addressed to make sure that the  Common residents have access to their homes at all times and emergency vehicles can gain access when necessary.

SEE ALSO: Andover Tae Kwon Do members at world championships

"Four parking spaces have been allocated for people with disabilities and for parents with pushchairs and young children on the left of the cattle grid at Joys Lane. Four spaces are available for public use to the right of the cattle grid as well as space for bikes and motorcycles.

"The left-hand gate alongside the cattle grid continues to give access for horses using the bridleway.  All overflow parking will be at West Down and access from there to the Common is via the signposted footpath called Whitelands from the Coronation Tree. New horse gates to give easier access to the River Test ford by the Long Bridge are planned too."

A new barrier has also been installed at the cattle grid, enabling the possibility of closing the Common in emergencies or for maintenance. Given past issues with anti-social behavior, this measure will help preserve the sanctity of this natural gem.