Preston Park aviary works begin, as major revamp continues
Works to revamp a popular aviary, as part of a multi-million upgrade of a local park, are due to begin.Stockton's Preston Park is undergoing significant redevelopment after the council secured £20m in government Levelling Up funds for the regeneration of the Yarm and Eaglescliffe area. Preston Park's aviary, which has been a key feature of the site since the early 1980s, is set to be expanded as part of the redevelopment, affording visitors better views of the River Tees. Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council said they expect work on the aviary to be completed in July.
The aviary's steel-domed structure will be retained, with the roof refurbished to provide additional shelter and a flexible seating area.Three small buildings within the aviary will be revamped, with secure doors added, which the council says could provide storage for outdoor activities such as paddle-boarding and open-water swimming by visiting groups.Visual artist, painter and former musician Kate Jackson will also create a mural across the back wall of the aviary, as part of the Stockton and Darlington Railway festival (S&DR200) which began in March and continues until September across the region.
Other redevelopment projects in the park, including a two-storey extension to the museum, are near completion. The revamped museum, situated in a Grade II-listed, 19th century manor house within the park grounds, includes a new exhibition and gallery space for international exhibits - with councillor Nigel Cooke saying the site is "set to gain national attention".The enlarged space will also allow hundreds of unseen local objects to be put on display.Additional park redevelopment includes an extension to the cafe, improved parking facilities and new public toilets."Our plans will ensure that other elements of the park, like the aviary, become a highlight once again for visitors," said Mr Cooke."The major exhibitions and events in the museum will bring thousands more visitors to Preston Park from the local area and further afield," he added. "I am looking forward to seeing so many people being able to enjoy this safe outdoor space once again."
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