A COUNTRY park in Trafford is set for a facelift after new funding was secured.

Almost £100,000 is being pumped into the revamp of Wellacre Country Park in Urmston, which will see footpaths improved, wildlife habitats bolstered and new signs installed.

Work is due to start on the huge project imminently after charity City of Trees secured £71,142 from Veolia Environmental Trust and a further £25,000 from Trafford Council.

The planned work is set to improve the site’s biodiversity and bring better access to nature for local people – which Trafford Council said is a vital part of the post-pandemic recovery.

The improvements will include renewing a main footpath from Ambleside to Carrington Road to increase access and enhance safety, as well as replacing all existing signs across the park.

There will also be volunteer conservation days so that residents can play a role in the transformation.

New information boards and signs will also be installed across the site to provide wildlife and heritage information and encourage people to explore other nearby sites in Urmston and the wider Mersey Valley.

Habitat enhancements will include woodland management, wildflower planting, grassland management and invasive species control.

City of Trees and The Conservation Volunteers are hoping to involve local schools and residents in the revamp process.

Cllr Stephen Adshead, Trafford Council’s executive member for the environment, said: “This is fantastic news for Wellacre Country Park and I am delighted that Trafford Council was able to help fund the work which is due to take place.

“Trafford Council is passionate about the environment and we are committed to improving all of Trafford’s green spaces for future generations to enjoy, recognising the multiple benefits they bring.

“It is one of our main priorities and a key part of our pandemic recovery and climate emergency response through nature.”

El Walker, from City of Trees, said:  “We are delighted to have secured this funding as part of  our commitment to the Trafford Countryside Management Partnership.

“Wellacre Country Park is a beautifully diverse site with lots of potential for both visitors and wildlife.

"We are looking forward to involving the community in our volunteer days when we can.”