£961 grant helps regenerate houses (From Warrington Guardian)

£961 grant helps regenerate houses

12:39pm Wednesday 25th July 2012 in News

A GRANT of £961,000 means work can start to regenerate derelict glasshouses at Grappenhall Heys Walled Garden.

The donation from the Heritage Lottery Fund will restore the Foster and Pearson buildings to their former glory - completing work on the garden which has been brought back to life in recent years.

The award means the garden will be able to expand on the current range of activities offered to provide better educational opportunities, encourage more community involvement and tell the story of the history of the area.

Janet Richards, clerk at Grappenhall and Thelwall Parish Council, said: “The restoration of the glasshouses at Grappenhall Heys will provide a fabulous community facility for recreation, learning and participation for a broad range of groups within the community.

“The regeneration will not only restore their visual beauty, but will also preserve heritage for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.

“We are absolutely thrilled to bits that our lottery bid has been successful, and look forward to seeing the glasshouses being brought back to life.”

It was the parish council who in 2011 concluded the glasshouses should be saved.

The new work will see original brickwork used, the frame rebuilt in timber, and ironwork preserved.

It is expected to start in late 2012 and will also include refurbishment of the back sheds.

The finished buildings will include working glasshouses, a display glasshouse, potting sheds, educational space, heritage displays, a kitchen, a café area, outdoor seating and indoor event space.

The garden currently boasts a busy friends group, with more than 220 members, which supports the garden in many ways and raises funds by organising events and providing refreshments.

The garden is open to the public every day and entry is free.

For more information visit ghwalledgarden.org.uk.