AFTER more than two years in the planning, a former Second World War airfield in Oxford has been turned into a recreational paradise.

On Saturday the new Herschel Crescent Recreation Ground in Littlemore was officially opened after a £80,000 transformation.

Additions since work started in January include a zip line, a picnic area, basketball hoop, football pitches and woodland seating.

Plans for the next phase onsite include a custom-made BMX track, with work expected to start on this by late summer.

Mum-of-three Janette Miah was there on the day with her sons, who were excited to explore the site.

She said: “It is really cool, the old park was not like that before.”

The idea came from a consultation in 2013 with Cowley and Littlemore residents for what facilities the area needed. But plans stalled last August after soil from Blackbird Leys pool project proved unsuitable.

Up to 1,000 cubic metres of soil is needed to create the BMX track and after an appeal in Oxford Mail councillors agreed to buy soil from a specialist company.

Money came from not-for-profit firm Wren, Littlemore’s Cardinal House development, the parish precept and the Big Society budget – raising £82,000. A further £4,500 came from councillors donating ward budgets.