MORE than half a million pounds has been earmarked to help turn a much-loved Lake District park into a 'flagship destination'.

It was announced today (Friday, September 29) by Heritage minister John Glen, who has been on a tour of Cumbria, that Fell Foot Park will receive a Heritage Lottery Fund grant of £684,000.

The money will allow National Trust, owners of the site, to restore key elements of the park, including its boathouse complex and arboretum.

Mike Innerdale, the National Trust’s assistant director of Operations for Cumbria and North Lancashire said: “We’re thrilled that the National Lottery is supporting our vision for Fell Foot.

"We want to provide exceptional opportunities for people to re-connect with each other and the great outdoors, and make precious memories for generations to come. For nearly 70 years local people have been coming to enjoy access to the lake, the wonderful views and the parkland. This funding will help us tell the extraordinary story of Fell Foot, provide access to new areas, respond to winter flooding and lift the visitor experience to a new level."

Visited by more than 150,000 people a year, the park originally formed the majestic grounds of an early 19th Century Lake District villa landscape.

It features sweeping lawns, rowing boats, a café and shop. Activities include wild play, family camping, swimming and running events.

The Fell Foot project will involve the conservation of five boathouses, making them flood resilient and suitable as multi-use community spaces.

The Gasometer Cottage will be restored to provide office space and a reception area, the arboretum and park landscape restored, while access to the waterfront will be improved and visitors will be able to enjoy new sheltered spaces and play facilities.

The National Trust will also create four new jobs and eight volunteering roles to run the project.

Heritage Minister John Glen said: “This funding is wonderful news for Fell Foot and will help transform the park, preserve the stunning arboretum and restore its beautiful historic boathouses. Our heritage should be open to everyone and, thanks to National Lottery players, this project will enable even more people to discover and enjoy the fascinating stories that can be found here at Fell Foot.”

The confirmed award of £684,000 is part of a multi-million pound, six-year National Trust vision to breathe new life into the lake side property.

The first phase, costing £2.6 million pounds, is near completion. A new sports facility and year-round activity base will open next Spring (2018) in partnership with the rowing and sailing club and other outdoor activity providers.