WALTON Hall is set for a £2 million revamp after councillors approved planning permission for the project.

The National Lottery funding will go towards giving derelict glasshouses and potting sheds on the estate a new lease of life.

The regeneration project aims to bring some buildings back into use as being respectful of the heritage of the estate.

Planning documents say: “At the completion of the works, the conservatory range will once again fulfil its original role as a functioning hive of activity and as a cluster of buildings of iconic stature at the heart of the estate.

“It will have a significant impact upon the public’s perception of the estate and will generate a new understanding of the rich heritage.”

Ramps for disabled access will be installed and new toilets, a plant room and computer room will be installed.

The pond and statue will be restored to the conservatory and the site will go on to be used for plant sales, events, workshops and demonstrations.

Walton Hall is grade II listed but none of the individual buildings to be revamped are listed, with most of them dating from 1899 to 1910. The Shippon dates back to 1883.

The council also approved plans for Walton Hall riding school to be refurbished.

The school, which sits between the heritage yard and the golf club, dates from around 1899 and is currently derelict.

Once it has been revamped it will be brought back into use for events.