THE newly formed Rivington Heritage Trust has pledged that Lever Park will be safe in its hands.

Local residents fear the park could become commercialised as a result of a change in management.

But launching the charitable trust which will take over responsibility for the beauty spot from North West Water, managing agent Pauline Roscoe promised the historic parkland will enjoy better protection under its new management.

Residents and interest groups had expressed concerns over changes in Lever Park Bill which governs the management of the facility.

People feared that parts of the park could be closed and entrance charges introduced. But lans to impose charges for parking were dropped after protests.

The Trust will be totally independent and will be made up of North West Water, Bolton and Chorley Councils, Lancashire County Council, and the Conservation Access and Recreation Advisory Committee.

Pauline Roscoe says it will continue to protect the character of the park and will be supported financially by North West Water.

The Park is also bidding for cash from the Millennium Commission and Heritage Lottery funding.

The Trust is committed to carrying out improvements to restore the courtyard at Rivington Barn, to revamp the terraced gardens and to establish a "Blue Planet" visitor centre at the water treatment works outside the park.

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