LOTTERY money is to be used to restore and refurbish the historic landscape of Shibden Park, Halifax.

The Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded £3,955,000 to the project, which as well as revitalising the landscape, will improve facilities in the park and fund a new café and visitors centre.

It echoes plans for Greenhead Park in Huddersfield.

Originally a working estate for families who lived at the Hall, Shibden was transformed into a public park in 1926 through the philanthropy of a local businessman who purchased the land and gifted it to the Borough of Halifax.

Clr Ford, Leader of Calderdale Council said: "The Council is delighted that the heritage of Calderdale is being preserved and made more accessible for future generations.

"This grant means that we can conserve the park and its structures as well as providing the public with the opportunity to learn about Shibden's history".

One of the developments will be the opening of a `gardeners tunnel' concealed within the terrace wall.

This was originally used for servants to access their quarters without being seen from the house.

Heritage Lottery fund manager for Yorkshire and Humber Fiona Spiers said:

"We are delighted to be supporting this exciting project - its great news for Halifax.

"As one of the area's most important heritage sites, this much loved park deserves to be restored."