The proposed restoration of Shibden Park in Calderdale near Halifax is underway, thanks to a £4m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The revamp will include the construction of a new visitors centre and café in the heart of the park, as well as the introduction of a new range of play equipment in the play area.

In addition, the terrace walls will be repaired and the ‘gardeners tunnel’ within the walls – originally used as a secret passage to the servants’ quarters – will be re-opened.

New planting, improvements to the park’s paths and restoration of the water features, cascades and pools within the wilderness gardens will also be carried out.

HLF’s regional manager, Fiona Spiers, said: “Halifax’s open spaces play such an important role as havens from the bustle of daily life, and we are thrilled to help restore and open up Shibden Park for as many people as possible to enjoy.”

Shibden Park was as a working estate for families living at Shibden Hall, before being transformed into a public park in 1926 owing to the philanthropy of a local businessman who purchased the land and gifted it to the borough. Details: www.calderdale.gov.uk