A MAJOR scheme to redevelop Lever Park cleared an important hurdle when plans were passed by the borough council.
North West Water's proposals to revamp the Rivington beauty spot using Millennium Commission funding were accepted by planners at a meeting last week.
The utility hopes the decision will strengthen their bid for the lottery cash in a project likely to cost £15m.
But the rubber stamp was accompanied by a list of conditions to appease locals who fear the area will lose its character.
Coun Steve Holgate said: "We had to make a decision about the application that was before us, but conditions were put on the plans to ensure there is no rampant commercialisation of the park."
The ambitious scheme includes extending the area of Lever Park, building a visitor centre and restoring the terraced gardens.
Petitioners have been pounding away for more local representation on the Trust, which is dominated by the utility.
But NWW management consultant Pauline Roscoe said: "As far as I am aware the make-up of the Trust will remain the same.
"We are delighted about winning planning approval and can now progress with the grant application."
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article