AMBITIOUS plans to transform Verdin Park are moving a step closer to reality as Northwich Town Council prepares a bid for funding.

Residents were first asked to have their say about the park’s future two years ago, and designs for a new play area are set to feature elements of what the town said it wanted during consultation.

Town councillors were told at Monday’s meeting that an application for funding is set to be submitted by the beginning of July, and a decision will be made in September.

Chris Shaw, town clerk, said: “If the application is successful we will purchase the equipment direct from the suppliers and appoint a contractor to carry out the installation.

“We feel we will achieve better value for money by doing it this way.”

The project is expected to cost around £85,000.