WORK on a £3m project to renovate a Victorian park has begun.
Designers Southern Green have been appointed to lead the refurbishment of Wharton Park, in Durham City, and a former park keeper’s house will be demolished later this month.
Youngsters from Framwellgate Moor have already started ground clearance work as part of Durham Agency Against Crime’s Haggrid Project.
The wide-ranging revamp will include a new heritage centre and cafe, play and fitness areas and events and activities, plus the restoration of the park’s amphitheatre and battlements.
Councillor Maria Plews, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for leisure, libraries and lifelong learning, said: “Wharton Park is one of Durham City’s hidden gems and provides important green space and recreational opportunities for local people and visitors.
“It’s great to see that initial work on restoration is underway and we have an expert team leading the design.”
The park opened in 1858 and hosted the first Durham Miners’ Gala in 1871. The refurbishment project won £2.45m from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Ivor Crowther, head of the HLF for the North-East, said he was really pleased work was starting.
People are invited to get involved with the Friends of Wharton Park by visiting friendsofwhartonpark.org.uk
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