A NEW terrain for the historic game of pétanque is being installed in Bridgwater.

Bridgwater Town Council (BTC) will start work on the project, in Victoria Park, in March that will create facilities for the game, also known as boules.

It is being funded by Bridgwater Pétanque Club and the Hinkley Point C (HPC) Community Fund, established by EDF and managed by Somerset Community Foundation to support community initiatives and wellbeing across Somerset.

BTC said breaking ground on the new pétanque facility “marks an exciting step in expanding the park’s already diverse recreational offer”.

“Victoria Park is a well‑used community space, home to a multi‑use games area (MUGA), outdoor gym, skateboard ramp, children’s play area and the long‑established Victoria Park Bowling Club,” a spokesperson said.

People of all ages and abilities an take up pétanque, which involves participants throwing heavy balls at a ‘jack’, typically on hard gravel or dirt surfaces.

And it is hoped the new Bridgwater terrain, measuring 15m x 14m will help casual players, families and groups to enjoy the game.

Cllr Tim Mander, chair of the Amenities Committee at BTC, said: “We are delighted to bring this new facility to Victoria Park. Thanks to the generous support of the HPC Community Fund and Somerset Community Foundation, and the hard work and dedication of our own council workforce, we are able to offer another inclusive and enjoyable activity for residents.

“The new pétanque terrain will help encourage outdoor activity and create new opportunities for social engagement within the park.”

The terrain is set to be completed in the coming weeks, with an official opening event planned later in the spring.

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