POOLE Park’s bid for £2.7million of National Lottery money has been successful.

Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) bosses’ announcement yesterday - that the park would definitely be getting the cash boost - follows three years of work to secure the funding.

Now the Borough of Poole (BOP) will be able to press ahead with ambitious plans to give the Victorian park a complete overhaul.

Among the proposals include new play areas, new footpaths, roads, car parking, landscaping, lake drainage and dredging.

New islands, to be created in the main lagoon, and a new viewing platform are also planned. BOP environment portfolio holder Cllr John Rampton said: “Poole Park is a real gem in the heart of the town and is treasured by so many people and we are all absolutely delighted that the HLF have recognised the importance that this park plays in our lives.

“This significant funding will both improve and protect the park for everyone to enjoy now and in the future.

“Today’s fantastic announcement from the HLF is a testament to the hard work and commitment by the council, the Friends of Poole Park, the Poole Park Heritage Group and the many other individuals, groups and businesses that have helped shape the bid proposals over the last three years. Poole Park is very much a ‘people’s park’ and I would encourage residents to get involved as much as they can in caring for this beautiful park.”

The worked planned at Poole Park will take place in stages over the next four years. On August 12, on the park’s West Field, the launch of the Poole Park Community Arts Exhibition will kickstart the work.

Martin Whitchurch, BOP’s Poole Park Life Project manager, said: “The whole community can get involved in a range of activities throughout the day as well as finding out what the funding means for Poole Park. You can take part in one of our competitions for painting, photography and pottery/sculpture which people of all ages can enter. Or if you are part of a local community performance group, whether it’s dance, singing or drama, and would like to perform at the event please let us know.”

Meanwhile, HLF’s chief executive Ros Kerslake said: “It is difficult to overstate the importance of public parks. Poole Park is one of the latest to benefit from over £900m National Lottery funding.”