A LANDMARK that has been a family favourite for generations is undergoing a major facelift.

A £100,000 refurbishment project has started at the paddling pool in Chesterway and is expected to be completed in time for summer 2016.

The extensive renovation will include a new pump room to chlorinate the water, rotate it in the pool and test it, as well as a new surface around the pool itself to make it safer and more user friendly and new stainless steel benches around the pool.

A prominent new fun feature will be a giant toadstool water fountain for the centre of the pool.

There has been a paddling pool in Chesterway for more than 40 years, with the original facility situated where Pets At Home currently stands.

The pool, run by Northwich Town Council at Church Walk playground, is open to families for free during the summer months.

Minimal improvement work during the decades meant it was in great need of improvement.

Northwich Town Council agreed that the work should go ahead but needed extra cash to meet the £100,000 price tag for the revamp.

It won funding from both Waste Recycling Environmental Network (WREN) and Cheshire West and Chester Council to add to its own investment.

Cllr Andrew Cooper said: "This is a unique and much valued facility right in the heart of Northwich.

"I’m sure many residents will have memories from their own childhood of great days at the paddling pool, and will be delighted to see that improvements are taking place.

"Once work is complete, the paddling pool will be much safer and will continue to entertain future generations."