Hopes of a multi-million boost for one of the town’s most historic parks are set to get a boost next week.

Members of the borough’s planning and development committee are expected to give the go-ahead for major restoration work at two of the most historic buildings at Holywells Park.

The work is expected to see the stable block turned into a visitor centre and the nearby orangery into an exhibition space that could also be used for special functions.

If the applications are successful – and planning officers are recommending approval – a decision from the Heritage Lottery Fund on a £2.8million grant to restore the park to its Victorian splendour is expected towards the end of June.

The application also involves refurbishing the gates to the Cliff Lane entrance to the park – and there would also be major changes to the Cliff Lane entrance car park.

That would be reserved for park staff, residents of the two Holywells Park cottages, and members of the bowls club – the general public would have to leave their vehicles outside the park.

Borough councillor and member of the Friends of Holywells Park, Liz Harsant, said she was confident that the committee would give the go-ahead for the work.

“I am thrilled that we have reached this stage and I cannot see any problems cropping up at this end.

“There have been some concerns from residents of the cottages about the parking arrangements, but I don’t think that will delay the process.”

She remained hopeful that the HLF would make the grant later in the summer – which would allow work to start in the not-too-distant future.