WORK has started on the transformation of Bank Park - with hedges and trees set to be cut down.

As previously reported in the Warrington Guardian, the park, which surrounds the Town Hall, is undergoing a £2.2million facelift.

The first phase will see the return of a path layout from more than 150 years ago.

Other changes will include the replacement of the bowling greens with new floodlit all-weather surfaces, a refurbished toilet block, new playground and, subject to further consultation, a new pavilion.

Clr Kate Hannon, executive board member for leisure, community and culture, said: ‘This is an historic day. This is the first step in transforming our much treasured Bank Park.

“It will initially look strange with the hedge removed but this will open up the park and it is necessary to do this work now for ecological reasons.

“Work will start on creating the new pathways early in the coming weeks.

“We are looking forward to sharing revised plans for the park with the public soon, particularly those for the pavilion, having incorporated the valuable feedback that we received in the consultation exercise held last year into the new designs.

“Like all of the parks in the borough, Bank Park belongs to the people of Warrington and the council is enjoying working with residents and businesses in reinventing its future as a vibrant town ‘front garden’.”