VISITORS to a Victorian Park will see the first tangible signs of a £3m restoration project this weke, when workers move in to pull down a park keeper’s house.

Demolition of the structure at Durham City’s Wharton Park is expected to take two weeks, with the area cordoned off, while the rest of the park remains open.

The historic park will close in spring for 12 months for extensive work, including a new heritage centre and café, new play and fitness areas and restoration of the amphitheatre, battlements and miniature car track.

Wharton Park project manager Caroline Stephens said: “The project has been a long time in the making, but it is finally here and coming to fruition.

“There has been a lot done behind the scenes, such as going through tendering stages and the design work. This is first time members of the public will be able to see something tangible happening.”

Ms Stephens said essential tree work will start at the end of January, with some trees to come out for health and safety or age reasons.

Wharton Park occupies 4.3 hectares of land within the Durham City Conservation Area.

The area, which became known as the People's Park, was first opened to the public in 1858 and was the site of the first Durham Miners' Gala in 1871.

Information boards detailing the restoration are in place at the North Road entrance and the car park.

Designers Southern Green have been appointed to lead the refurbishment.