Work to start on refurbishment of much loved aviary in Preston Park

Work is set to begin on Preston Park's much-loved aviary which will see the structure brought back to life and transformed into a space combining nature, community use and art.

The aviary has been a prominent feature in the park since the early 1980s.

It's now being  redeveloped as part of ambitious Council plans to transform Preston Park into an inspiring visitor destination with improved facilities.

The plans will see part of the aviary's structure opened up, allowing visitors to enjoy wider views of the River Tees. There will be hard and soft landscaping with new planting, creating a peaceful space for people to relax and enjoy.

The main steel works will be retained, and the roof structure refurbished to provide shelter for a flexible seating area.

Three small buildings within the aviary will be refreshed with secure doors, which providing opportunities for temporary storage space and community use.

The new storage spaces could support outdoor activities for group use during visits, from paddleboarders and open water swimmers to schools.

Visual artist, painter and former musician Kate Jackson will also create a mural spanning the back wall of the aviary as part of the S&DR200 festival. This space will also become a showcase for changing sculptural artwork over the years.

The repurposed aviary will complement the refurbished café, new toilets and an improved playpark to create a new, impressive focal point of Preston Park where families and groups can come together and enjoy.

Work is also almost complete on the museum extension, which will create a space for nationally significant touring exhibitions and loans.

Councillor Nigel Cooke, Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure and Culture at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: "The aviary is an important part of Preston Park and it's wonderful to be able to announce plans to bring this iconic structure back into use very soon.

"Preston Park is set to gain national attention, and our plans will ensure that other elements of the park, like the aviary, become a highlight once again for visitors.

"The major exhibitions and events in the museum will bring thousands more visitors to Preston Park from the local area and further afield. I am looking forward to seeing so many people being able to enjoy this safe outdoor space once again."

Preston Park's exciting transformation will create a unique destination in the Tees Valley, where people can play, learn and explore the Borough's rich local heritage.

This work is being funded after the Council secured £20million from the Government's Levelling Up Fund for Yarm and Eaglescliffe.

Work on the aviary is underway and will be complete in July.

Find out more about the transformation of Preston Park Museum.