PLANNERS behind a £3.9m revamp of Darlington's South Park said yesterday it would become a thriving tourist spot.

Work to restore the park to its former Victorian glory gets under way later this month, and council bosses are confident of making it a huge success.

The first phase begins on April 28, when environmental experts will carry out assessments on each of the park's 1,200 trees, replacing those that are dead or diseased.

The initial ecological work could lead to the park becoming a wildlife haven, said consultant Charles Crawford.

"It will be mainly focused around the lake, which will be completely dredged out," he said.

"There weren't thought to be water voles in the park, but ecologists have identified their presence, so there will be surveys to establish exactly where they are and make sure they are protected."

The restoration plan has been boosted by a £2.9m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Funds are also being provided by Darlington Borough Council, County Durham Environmental Trust, the Training and Enterprise Council, and community and local groups.

Other plans include restoring the bandstand and terracotta fountain, refurbishing the lake, creating a sensory garden, improving public access and building educational facilities.

The council's assistant director of environmental services, Terry Collins, said: "It is the oldest public park in Darlington, so this is a major project for the town and will bring a lot of people here. It is going to be a tremendous amenity.

"It is not just for the people of Darlington - it is a regional facility and that is why we received such a large grant."

It is hoped that the restoration and development will be completed by summer next year and the park will remain open to the public throughout the work.

Information boards have been put in place and regular updates on the scheme's progress will be provided on the council's website.