WORK is ‘ahead of schedule’ on the £2million makeover of Rhyddings Park.

Three weeks ago development began at the Oswaldtwistle site by the Friends of Rhyddings Park, Newground Together and Hyndburn Council.

Plans include restoring the Coach House to make a new community venue and provide resources for schools and for growing food.

So far contractors have taken out plants in the woodland area, rocks have been cleared and lighting is being selected for the performing area.

Over the next two months the performing space will be completed, the woodland paths renovated and the main entrance cleared.

The friends group said it is looking for the landscaping work at the park to be done by the end of August.

Work is being funded by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund Park for People.