PRESTON Park in Stockton is known for its Victorian Street, beautiful grounds and museum, however, its “eyesore” aviary has seen better days.

Once home to exotic species, in recent years the aviary has become overrun with weeds and has graffiti sprawled across it.

And now Stockton residents are being asked for their views on what they would like to see happen to the structure.

Preston Park museum and grounds is set to "receive major work" as part of a £20m pot secured to 'level up' Yarm and Eaglescliffe.

The Northern Echo: Preston Park's aviary was once home to exotic species. Picture: MATT VICKERS' OFFICEPreston Park's aviary was once home to exotic species. Picture: MATT VICKERS' OFFICE

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As part of this work, the toilets will be refurbished along with the car park, an art exhibition space and railway tracks to celebrate the significance of Stockton & Darlington Railway.

The hall is very popular for family days out and the grounds are used to keep animals such as penguins and llamas.

In recent years, it has been given a £7m transformation after a successful bid for funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Stockton Borough Council.

The next phase should improve the popular attraction even more. Stockton South MP, Matt Vickers, has created a survey to ask members of the public for their ideas on what they think the future of the Preston Park aviary should look like.

The Northern Echo: The aviary is currently overgrown with weeds. Picture: MATT VICKERS' OFFICEThe aviary is currently overgrown with weeds. Picture: MATT VICKERS' OFFICE

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He said: “The aviary is an iconic part of Preston Park, however over the last few years it has sadly become an eyesore. The structure itself is fantastic; however the overgrowth and graffiti highlight the fact that it needs a dash of TLC.

“As part of the £20 million Levelling Up grant, Preston Park is going to be receiving major attention, and we want to make sure that the aviary is put to good use and once again becomes a highlight of the Park.”

The Northern Echo: Stockton residents are being asked what they want the aviary to be used for. Picture: MATT VICKERS' OFFICEStockton residents are being asked what they want the aviary to be used for. Picture: MATT VICKERS' OFFICE

He added: “Who best to decide the future of the aviary than local residents who see it every day?”

Councillor Jim Beall, Stockton Borough Council’s cabinet member for health, leisure and culture, said: “We are currently exploring a range of options for the aviary at Preston Park as part of the Council’s plans to improve the park.”

Alex Cunningham MP was approached for comment but The Northern Echo did not receive a response.

To have your say on the future of the aviary, click here.

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