MASSIVE restoration plans for Ashton Gardens were presented to Fylde's Tourism and Leisure Committee for the first time this week.

The popular St Annes landmark could undergo a two million pound face-lift if the ambitious proposals unveiled at the initial meeting are accepted by the heritage lottery fund.

Principle aims of the plan are to provide activity areas for all age groups, to respect historical character and the tranquillity of the gardens, improve safety, reduce vandalism and improve the botanical, ecological and educational aspects of the garden.

Such aims would be implemented in various ways including the reinstatement of the original Ashton Pavilion as a cafe and replacing the existing cafe with a shelter-style building featuring a separate ladies' and gentleman's bowls house and bowls ticket office.

Safety issues in the park were high on the agenda and have been addressed by proposals to re-implement a park warden or ranger, who would work from an entrance lodge. Increased and improved lighting throughout the gardens would also help keep the park safe.

Further plans include removing the maze area and replacing it with a multi-use sports area and repairing, improving and extending the existing playground area.

All this along with general replanting, repair and maintenance of the gardens could end up costing a rather hefty two million pounds, which would be a very ambitious lottery bid.

The council's director of tourism and leisure, David Joy explained : "Basically we have two options to go for, one is to go ahead with a full refurbishment of the park and its buildings -- which is the the most costly and includes demolition and reconstruction. The other is less radical and costly and involves extensive repairs and landscaping to the gardens. Resource consultant Scott Wilson and myself are going to take on board the committee's comments and the financial and practical issues that emerged at the meeting to put together a revised plan.

"Putting in a bid is a very lengthy process, so it could be at least 12 or 18 months before the first phase of the restoration could begin."