MEMBERS of the Central Park for Morecambe campaign have overcome the first hurdle of a bid to secure Millennium funding. Progress to secure £1.5 million from the Millennium Commission has passed the initial stage and comes in the wake of the recent ousting of Cllr Geraldine Smith from a senior council position. Members of the campaign have vowed to continue their support for the campaign after Cllr Smith - who spearheaded the plans for a park - was ejected from her position as leader of the Economic Development committee last week.

Once members of the campaign secure the Millennium funding it will be used to buy the designated land in Westgate and Altham Road Meadow from the council.

Work is also currently under way to raise sponsorship from local businesses to match the Millennium funding bringing the total cost of the project up to £2.1 million.

Phil Farrell, of the Morecambe and Lunesdale Constituency Labour Party said: "We're now working to complete the second part of the bid, by November 11. At the end of the day once we've got all the money we'll be able to make the council an offer they can't refuse and design a new park which will be bring a lot more revenue into the town."

Hazel Midgley, of the Campaign for a Central Park for Morecambe, told the Citizen they would continue their work for the park. She said: "It is well known in Morecambe that we seriously need some open space. The area is densely populated and land in Westgate is a perfect site for a park.

"Of course the campaign is going full steam ahead. Getting rid of Geraldine from her council position was just just beyond all logic. It was quite unbelievable, she was doing really well and working within the council."

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