TEST Valley Borough Council has bought some land in a bid to improve residents’ access to the countryside.

The land in Sherfield English is almost 13 hectares in size and has been purchased using financial contributions made to the council from housing developments across the southern half of the borough.

Situated on Mill Lane, the land will be opened up to the community as a recreational green space for visitors to use all year round and is accessible via the A27.

Deputy leader of Test Valley Borough Council, councillor Nick Adams-King, said: “I’m very excited about the purchase of this land. Our aim is to make this area of already attractive countryside into a place which regular walkers will be able to enjoy without having to travel too far.

“The area is easy to reach and is a wonderful opportunity for Test Valley Borough Council to offer up another area of outstanding beauty that sits in our amazing borough.”

The cost of the land has not been disclosed.

Cllr Adams-King said: “This land has been bought using contributions secured by the council from housing developers. Increasing access to the countryside and being able to offer more green space that people can enjoy is something to which we are committed. We are glad we have been able to do so now in Sherfield English.”

The council said it will now start working on improving the access to the land ready for a car park to be put in place.