A major restoration project has been carried out at Hotham Park in Bognor Regis, West Sussex, following a £2.2m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The scheme, which got underway in October 2007 and led by Arun District Council (ADC), has transformed the landscape of the park, with the creation of a new conservation pond and 2 hectares (4.94 acres) of new parkland. UPM Tilhill has worked on the project, which has seen the renovation of Hotham Park's boating lake, the creation of new Italian and Winter Gardens, and a new community facility being established in the revamped lodge next to the main entrance.

The park's clock tower has been restored thanks to a £25,000 grant from SITA Trust, with its mechanism receiving a complete overhaul for the first time in 200 years, while a new drainage system has been implemented to improve ground conditions. Dead and decaying trees have also been removed as part of a new tree strategy, which will see more trees removed over the next three years to ensure a sustainable age structure.

Work is still ongoing in certain areas, with new signage and interpretation boards set to be installed, while the ornamental pond is to be refurbished. The new Hotham Park manager, Michael Rowland, said: "This park is a great asset to the town and the restoration has made huge improvements, but with a park this size, there is always more to be done.

"It's my vision to provide a park of horticultural excellence – a top class venue where everyone can enjoy a wide range of activities and events in a beautiful setting."