Thanks to Eastleigh Borough Council's policy of devolving many items of local concern to parish and town councils, HETC, with its team of ground staff, now looks after most of the public open space in Hedge End.
The most recent acquisition is the beautiful new 16-acre park at Dowds Farm, complete with its substantial lake. It has just emerged from the first growing season for many of its plants and it is already starting to look quite mature.
Nearby Grange Park has an extensive network of walks and cycleways, including one along the railway line. It also has a walk from Lakeside to the recreation ground at Woodhouse Lane.
Central Hedge End also has a network of walks. One route connects Greta Park with Turnpike Way and Bridget Mary Garden.
In the south, there is some lovely walking to be had in the Manor Farm Country Park, which starts at the edge of town and extends along the River Hamble.
