FOLLOWING extensive restoration work the Lion Salt Works will be opening next week as part of the Heritage Open Days – with residents able to get a sneak peak of the site before it is officially reopened next year.

The historic open-pan salt making site will be re-opening as a heritage attraction in 2015 but Saturday, September 13 will offer people a unique chance to view the restored buildings before the interpretation fittings are installed.

Clr Stuart Parker, executive member for Culture and Economy, said: “The transformation of the Lion Salt Works is brilliant.

“The work hasn’t finished yet, but this year’s Heritage Open Days really offers a unique opportunity to walk around the restored buildings and view the new visitor centre before the final fit out starts.”

Heritage Open Days is an annual event running over four days from Thursday, September 11 to Sunday, September 14. It offers free access to a wide range of attractive and historically important buildings and sites throughout west Cheshire.

This is an opportunity to discover ‘hidden’ buildings and to find out what is behind their front doors. Many of the buildings are not open to the public, except during this celebratory weekend.

The programme, including more than 60 buildings, tours and guided walks, is produced by Cheshire West and Chester Council in partnership with the Chester Civic Trust.

Clr Hilarie McNae, champion for Historical Environment, said: “This is the 20th anniversary of Heritage Open Days. Each year we have seen more and more people coming to see our wealth of buildings and share the enthusiasm of their owners."

The Lion Salt Works is open on Saturday, September 13, from 10am to 4pm with tours at 10.30am, noon, 1.30pm and 3pm.

Entry is free and no booking is required. Please note there will be no parking on site. The Butterfly garden will also be open during the day.

Details about the restoration project can be found at lionsaltworks.org.