A NEW paddling pool and metal railings are just some of the changes that could be made to Worcester's Gheluvelt Park if a Lottery grant bid

is approved.

Because of its historical significance as a war memorial and its potential to provide educational opportunities, the Barbourne park is the only one in Worcester city eligible for a Heritage Lottery Fund grant.

Plans include:

l Changing the high maintenance paddling pool into an "Modern, attractive water play facility which has a year round attraction," according to the cabinet report.

l Moving the footbridge over Barbourne Brook to link the park with the Waterworks.

l Putting up metal railings to close off the park after dusk.

The Heritage Lottery Fund will approve the decision in two stages. The council will learn if it has passed the first stage between December 2005 and February 2006.

Francis Lankester, the council members responsible for riverside regeneration said if this hurdle was passed there was a "very good chance" the money would be handed over.

l Mr Lankester also said the city council needed to come up with a "cunning plan" to find cash to perk up Cripplegate Park in St John's.

"I can assure people that we are completely determined to improve and enhance the park, but the council needs to find a way of financing any work itself," he said.

His comments come in the light of new that the park does not meet criteria to catch Lottery funding.