TWO Redditch areas of natural beauty are to get makeovers thanks to a £500,000 Government grant.

Redditch Council carried out an audit of its parks and green spaces to see where the money could be put to good use and the first two areas chosen were Morton Stanley Park and Oakenshaw Spinney.

Public consultation was carried out, asking what work people wanted to see at Morton Stanley Park.

The plans will see refurbishment work on the car park, the establishment of an orchard or arboretum and the enhancement of footways through the woodland.

The council is also looking at having more on-site security.

A consultation has also been carried out among residents near Oakenshaw Spinney and this will now be widened to other Redditch people who enjoy the area.

Council landscape and countryside manager Nat Healey said: "We're hoping to have all work completed at both Morton Stanley Park and the Spinney before the summer so residents will really be able to make the most of the nice weather.

"We're now carrying out further assessments of parks and green spaces in the town to see where the remainder of this government money can be put to best use."

A consortium of seven local authorities in Worcestershire made a joint bid to the Deputy Prime Minister for the cash from the national "Liveability Fund" and the county was allocated £3.5 million.