Restoration of historic park to get underway

The project to restore Victoria Park has received funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund, and will include restoring key historical features – such as the bandstand and Mottram Shelter - as well as an improved aviary and enhanced catering facility.

Work is expected to be completed in the summer of 2020.

Contracts have been signed with the developer and a start date of July 22 has been agreed.

Stafford Borough Council has also started its tendering process for any group or business wanting to run the catering operation in the park.

The authority was successful in securing more than £1.7 million of National Lottery funding as part of the ‘Parks for People’ programme to carry out the extensive work.

The park is more than 100 years old and has been awarded the ‘Green Flag’ as one of the best parks and open spaces in the country since 2007.

In 2011 the council transformed the play area of the park, which was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by online travel review site,Trip Advisor, for its customer feedback.

Councillor Carolyn Trowbridge, cabinet member for leisure, said: “This is an extremely popular park. It is a jewel in the crown of the town and this work will restore historic features so they are not lost for future generations.

“We will also be improving existing facilities - using the feedback we received during consultations with residents, park users and those who play a key role within the park.”

She added: “It is good to hear the work will be getting underway shortly as we want many years to come.”

More information on the park at staffordbc.gov.uk/victoriapark

To take the virtual tour go to staffordbc.gov.uk/hlf