The investment will allow the many historic features within the Victorian park to be restored to their former glory, and the building of a new pavilion with cafe, and revamped play areas.

Some of the work will include bringing Kilmahew Fountain back into working order, enhancing Shiers Well and St Serf’s Church, and recreating the original main entrance.

Paths will also be upgraded and lights installed between the main entrance and pavilion, as part of the overall £3.7m project. The Council will be investing £920,000 to the project, with the additional funding being provided by Historic Environment Scotland.

Councillor Patrick McGlinchey, Convener for Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “It is fantastic that we have secured this significant grant funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to support our restoration of Levengrove Park’s historic character and upgrade its amenities. We take pride in the many fantastic parks and greenspaces across West Dunbartonshire and by carrying out these works it will help to enhance an already wonderful public space. As well as restoring the historic features, the park will also benefit from a new pavilion, toilets and cafe which will be a welcome addition for many residents. Once the work is completed Levengrove will be transformed and with its stunning setting on the banks of the Clyde will offer visitors an experience which it will be hard to rival anywhere else in Scotland.”

Lucy Casot, Head of HLF Scotland, added: “A wonderful legacy from our ancestors, public parks are increasingly under threat which makes this investment of National Lottery players’ money even more vital. Levengrove is enjoyed by all ages as a place to relax and reconnect with nature away from the pressures of daily life. As Love Parks Week begins, we’re delighted to show our commitment to protecting this precious green space making a difference to the quality of life for the people of West Dunbartonshire."

[quote=Lucy Casot, Head of HLF Scotland]"As Love Parks Week begins, we’re delighted to show our commitment to protecting this precious green space making a difference to the quality of life for the people of West Dunbartonshire.”[/quote]

Officially opened in 1885, Levengrove Park is the only Victorian park in West Dunbartonshire and was widely regarded as one of the top parks in the West of Scotland.

The park currently attracts almost 150,000 visits each year and it is expected that following completion of this work an additional 50,000 people will visit annually.

When developing the plans, a wide range of community consultations and visitors surveys have been carried out to ensure local residents are fully involved in the process.

The Friends of Levengrove Park group, which has 31 members, has been heavily involved in developing the plans through monthly meetings, and will continue to play a key part in delivering the project’s action plan.

Eight jobs will also be created as part of the project, with three posts in the new pavilion café, two apprentice gardeners, two park rangers and a Community Engagement Ranger being taken on.

The Ranger will lead the delivery of the park activity plan, which focuses on developing community and visitor engagement with the park’s heritage and other features. This will include open days, guided walks and exhibitions.

Councillor David McBride, Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “This £3.7m project will transform Levengrove Park and make it even more attractive for residents to get out and get active, as we constantly strive to improve the wellbeing of our communities. The improvement works will also play an important role in attracting more tourists to the area, which will help to improve economic growth and support the continued regeneration of Dumbarton. By offering employment opportunities, engaging with schools and focusing on educating visitors about the park’s rich heritage it will also ensure that Levengrove continues to be a wonderful asset for our communities.”

Residents interested in finding out more about the project or want the opportunity to play a part in shaping the final plans, can become part of the Friends of Levengrove Park group. For more information, go to the Friends of Levengrove Facebook page.

Further information

Colin Hutton, Press Officer, West Dunbartonshire Council, on tel: 01389 737296 or via email: colin.hutton@west-dunbarton.gov.uk