THE second phase of the renovation to turn a Victorian pump house in Worcester's Gheluvelt Park into an eco-centre is due to begin soon.

The Duckworth Worcestershire Trust recently received two further cash boosts to convert the site into a community environment centre, which will provide public information focusing on waste minimisation, recycling and energy efficiency.

Grant

The £80,652 grant from The Onyx Environmental Trust and another £19,000 grant from the Government's Clear Skies initiative, via the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme, will go towards converting the central wing of the building into an environmental resource and exhibition centre.

The wing, which is due to be opened to the public this summer, will also be used to train conservation volunteers and local community groups to become involved with "green" issues and learn about the environment.

The two grants will fund a number of renewable technologies, including the installation of two small wind turbines, and a ground source energy heating system.

Mark Driscoll, project manager at the Duckworth Trust, said the first phase, which involved the refurbishment of the east wing, at an estimated cost of £170,000, was completed in October 2003.

He said things are running smoothly for the second phase, which will cost around £200,000, and is due to begin next month.

"All the plans are ready for February so it is all systems go," said Mr Driscoll.

Margaret Cobbold, general manager of the Onyx Environment Trust, said the trust was delighted to award the grant.

"It is important to promote the use of sustainable and renewable energy systems to preserve and improve the environment," she said.

"This project is an excellent example of the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme benefiting the environment and the local community."