A PROJECT to transform a tired and underused Wirral park into a vibrant and attractive community space for all ages is set to kick off in Birkenhead.

Work will begin at Ilchester Park within the next month with the planting of more than 50 trees.

The planting will then be followed by the construction of new pathways, the planting of wildflower meadows and the creation of natural play areas.

A programme of events will be held over the summer to help local children use the park in a positive way and will include woodcraft and natural play sessions, culminating in a community celebration at the end of August.

The event will bring together the community to celebrate the ongoing work at the park and encourage the recreational use of the space.

The work is being coordinated by the Mersey Forest and funded by the Veolia Environmental Trust, which has contributed £67,000 for the project through the Landfill Communities Fund.

This will see around £100,000 invested in the park by 2015.

Ben Greenaway, from the Mersey Forest, said: “We are very excited about this project and are looking forward to the work getting underway over the next few weeks and months.

“A key part of this project is ensuring that the community use the park, which is why we’re investing time in running an exciting programme of events this summer.”

Paul Taylor, executive director of the Veolia Environmental Trust, added: “Over the last five years we have awarded £796,192 to community and environmental projects in Merseyside and it is always great to hear when one is starting.

“These improvements will make Ilchester Park a pleasant and vibrant space where the whole community can socialise, exercise and enjoy the outdoors.

“I look forward to hearing about the project’s development over the coming months.”