Lottery grant approved for St Helens park
Landscape architects TEP have been appointed by St Helens Council with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to draw up plans for the restoration of Victoria Park.
St Helens Council secured a development grant from the HLF to produce plans and cost estimates to restore the existing infrastructure, plant new trees and create sensory gardens and a labyrinth.
TEP is undertaking ecological and arboricultural studies and providing advice on the ecological impacts of restoration. Surveys will highlight key mature trees, priority habitats, bat roosts and foraging areas, as well as invasive species that require control. TEP's report also identifies opportunities for sensitive ecological reconditioning.
Tom Popplewell, consultant at TEP, said: "Trees in the park will play a crucial role in providing continuity and stability to the landscape during this period of change. We are thrilled to contribute to the restoration of such a significant and historic public space."
The existing gardens, traditional orangery and a Grade 2-listed gate lodge will also benefit if the council can make a successful round two application to the Heritage Lottery Funds Parks for People Grant, totalling £2.8m.
Victoria Park has around 1,000 trees, and TEP's report gives recommendations for their long term management and integration into the new park infrastructure.
