A MUCH-ANTICIPATED update on the Lion Salt Works restoration project has been revealed to Wincham Parish Council.

Jason Doherty, senior manager for culture and tourism at Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC), visited the parish council on February 16, and admitted that the Marston site, is in ‘a bit of a shambles’.

He said that he wanted to reassure residents just what would be happening on-site.

The salt works was taken into public ownership after it closed in 1986.

But funding of £5million from the Heritage Lottery Fund Grant and £3million of CWAC money has spearheaded a restoration drive.

“What we are talking about here is an £8million investment as a ball park figure,” said Mr Doherty.

“And what we do want to do is reassure people this will happen.

“Although the works might look ugly and derelict in historical terms it is very important.

“That kind of salt process is very important for this area.

“We hope it will create an attraction that actually adds to the locality. It is something local people can use and enjoy.”

Mr Doherty said that the work on the Grade II listed site would start in early summer this year, and should be fully operational by the summer or autumn of 2013.

“it will be seasonal in its operation,” he added, with two members of staff needed.

He went on to outline the features of the site, which will include a green area with a butterfly and herb garden, a museum contained within the Red Lion Inn detailing the history of salt, an educational space on the second floor and a separate community room.

There will be an interactive, physical element to the experience, with live displays of the salt-making process and an emotional experience including photographs.

“The last part of the experience is an opportunity to look at some parts of the site which wouldn’t be restored,” Mr Doherty added “People can then look through into the ruins of the industry - after 25 years of no use it is a relic.”

Mr Doherty was quick to reassure ward councillor Norman Wright that the community room would not be used for discos, and instead for community events which would be complimentary to the site.

Clr Wright also raised the issue of 24 hour boat moorings to keep to keep the level of the congestion in the canal down.

CWAC clr Malcolm Byram raised questions about subsidence and Mr Doherty said further investigation would be needed, but mitigation plans would be put in place.

Heather Holman, Wincham parish councillor, added: “I find it all very exciting.”

>Visit the project website at lionsaltworks.org.