THE avenue leading to Burnley's jewel in the crown' is to be spruced up as part of the £3.2million restoration of Towneley Park.

Work to fell 36 trees, some dating back 200 years, lining the approach to Towneley Hall will start soon, Burnley Council has said.

A survey conducted as part of the programme backed by the Heritage Lottery Fund found 36 trees along the roadway between Towneley Hall and the River Calder, needed removing.

They will be replaced with 76 species - about 50 will be oak and the rest lime.

Coun Roger Frost, the council's executive member for leisure and culture, said: "The re-planting scheme will form a key part of the £3.2million restoration programme for the park and will make a significant contribution to this beauty spot's future appearance.

"The main avenue is one of the best known landmarks in Towneley Park.

"This work will ensure people for decades to come will be able to enjoy its splendours.

"This approach to managing historic avenues like Towneley not only follows historic tradition but is also the most beneficial environmentally."

The project will be carried out over winter. As well as re-planting, work will also be done to improve drainage.

After the announcement earlier this year, a public consultation was held to decide the species of trees to be planted.

Other projects included in the scheme include restoring the ornamental gardens; improving other visitor facilities and pedestrian access.

A refreshment and toilet kiosk will be built, and car parking capacity will be doubled, although the council is planning to charge 50p a day, or £6 a year, to help cover the cost.