Anthony Brandreth welcomes opening of new look Hale Park, Widnes

May 21 2009 by Adrian Short, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

Anthony Brandreth welcomes opening of new look Hale Park, Widnes

A HERITAGE site makeover project has been completed in the wake of a huge cash injection from the National Lottery.

The cost of transforming Hale Park into a safer, more relaxing place to enjoy the great outdoors was £400,000.

Lottery funding was secured after the council forged partnerships with the residents’ group Friends of Hale Park. Further cash donations were received from Waste Recycling Environmental.

The heritage status of the park meant that historians were asked how to landscape the site in an authentic way by using the original designs from Hale Hall.

Schoolchildren were included in the consultation – they met playground designers who let them choose the equipment for the site.

New wildlife areas, including wetlands, were created to encourage plants, birds and insects to flourish. Further work is in the pipeline to provide viewpoints to surrounding areas.

Hale heritage champion Anthony Brandreth will promote Hale through events and education schemes, with the help of the friends group, residents and historians.

He said: “We are producing a programme of events and activities to suit all groups and ages. It’s great to see the park so full – visitor numbers are on the increase.

“Now’s a good time for the community to have its say – we welcome any suggestions.”

Cllr Phil Harris (parks) said: “This is a further example of Halton’s commitment to its parks and the natural environment.

“Green spaces can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Our investment is worth every penny.”