The first phase of a major regeneration and development has been completed at Haddo Country Park.

To date, the work has included specialist conservation works to monuments, structures, paths and planting at the site, while a new visitor centre is at the stables courtyard. In addition, work has been carried out to facilities a the Pheasantry, the main car park and arrival area, while new signage and furniture has been erected. A new car park has also been created at Craigie Wood, as well as a new adventure playground for children.

Welcoming the improvements, Provost of Aberdeenshire Jill Webster said: "We will continue to work with our partners and all those who visit the park to highlight the wide-ranging opportunities and activities available at Haddo, and to ensure it remains a premier tourist attraction for many years to come."

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Colin McLean, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said: "This is an exciting day for this popular park.

"Not only is the historical and cultural heritage of Haddo being protected but new and better facilities are sure to encourage more people through its magnificent gates to enjoy it in all its glory.

"We are thrilled that our Parks for People programme is helping make that happen."

The project has received a grant of £1.1m from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) from its Parks for People programme, with additional funding coming from LEADER, Historic Scotland, Aberdeenshire Council, the National Trust for Scotland and the Haddo Estate. There has also been voluntary commitment from the Friends of Haddo group and others, supporting an overall investment of around £1.9m.

A celebration event to mark the first phase of the scheme will be held at Haddo Country Park this Saturday (5 July) from 11.30am.

www.visithaddo.com

(JP/CD)