Restoration on the Miller Park grotto

Work on restoring the Miller Park grotto is nearing completion.

It was due to be finished at the end of August but Preston City Council says the intricate work on the water feature has taken longer than expected.

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The grotto was closed off in June as workmen add up-lighting to it and re-channel the flow of water.

You can see a sample of the uplighting in the grotto by watching the video below, or click here if you’re on our app.

Cabinet member for community and environment, Councillor Robert Boswell, said: “The West Grotto is one of the finest examples of a Pulham rock formation in the whole country, according to the adviser from the Heritage Lottery Fund with whom we have worked closely throughout the last few years of the Parks’ transformation.

“I understand there may be some frustration at wanting to see the waterfall up and running as soon as possible. However, restoration of such an historic feature is an intricate project, requiring a great deal of co-ordination between various specialists and craftsmen that takes time to get right.

“The Grotto had become rather run down and the water feature hadn’t worked for decades, so hopefully our park visitors can bear with us for just a few more weeks whilst we apply the finishing touches. It will be well worth the wait.”

Workmen in the grotto

Avenham and Miller Park was officially opened in 1867 and work started on the grotto shortly after.

It was amended in 1877 when the railway was widened and in 1880 it was remodelled to give the appearance it does today.

James Pulham and Sons were commissioned to create the grotto.

They are a nationally renowned firm of landscape artists based in Hertfordshire.

Are you looking forward to seeing the finished grotto? Does it hold any special memories for you? Let us know in the comments below