Park Proposals on Show.

Reporter: Ask Bury
Date online: 06 February 2008

Outline proposals for the restoration of Philips Park will be unveiled this week. They will be presented at the meeting of Whitefield Local Area Partnership on Tuesday evening (5th) and in an exhibition at Prestwich Library on Thursday (7th).

Bury Council’s Greenspace Projects Manager, Chris Wilkinson said; ldquo;In terms of history and wildlife, Philips is the Borough's most important park, but it has been in decline for many years and is now a shadow of its former self.

“An opportunity to fund restoration now exists through the Heritage Lottery Fund's 'Parks for People' programme, so proposals are being prepared for submission at the end of March.”

Consultations were held last year to hear what local people felt should be included in restoration proposals. The current outline proposals aim to reflect the views expressed then.

Central to the park's restoration is the future of the former nightclub buildings, which originally served as staff accommodation and stables next to the Philips's mansion. Extensions that were added to the buildings when it was used as a nightclub have recently been removed, so the original courtyard layout is once again visible.

Chris added: ldquo;It is hoped that the Heritage Lottery Fund will support the restoration of the original buildings, the adjacent formal gardens, improved access and car parking arrangements in the Park.”

After this week's consultation and the making of any changes that may result, the draft funding bid will be considered - and a decision made whether to submit it to the Heritage Lottery Fund - by the Council's Executive on the 27th February.