A RESTORATION of a park is expected to be completed on time and within budget, according to the district council.

North Hertfordshire District Council’s �2.7m renovation of Howard Park and Gardens in Letchworth GC - started in November 2010 - should be finished in March provided the weather does not cause delays, it was revealed last week.

The lottery funded project was initially due to be finished last autumn but the completion of Howard Park was put back until this spring due to changes to technical requirements from Anglian Water regarding the refurbishment of the paddling pool. The Gardens were handed back over to the council in November last year when an official opening took place.

Parks and countryside development manager Steve Geach delivered a verbal update at last Wednesday’s Letchworth area committee on progress of the scheme, which is being carried out by contractors UPM Tilhill on behalf of the council.

He said: “We cannot give any firm date but we are still on for completion in early spring. We’re still within budget for the project.”

The ongoing works, which include a kiosk for refreshment and the creation of improved play areas, will see Hillshot Car Park closed between February 13 and 17 when schools break up for half-term.

Mr Geach said an official unveiling of Howard Park could take place in May or June, in a bid to iron out any initial problems which may arise once it is open to the public.