Stockton’s Conservative MP has welcomed news that Preston Park’s historic aviary will be brought back to life thanks to the previous Conservative Government’s £20 million Levelling Up funding.
The plans will see part of the aviary’s structure opened, allowing Preston Park visitors to enjoy the space, and views of the River Tees.
The aviary has been a prominent feature of Preston Park since the 1980s – and thanks to the last Conservative government’s Levelling Up fund, secured by Matt in 2021.
The steel frame of the aviary will be retained, and the roof structure refurbished to provide shelter for a seating area. Work has already begun and will be complete by July.
Commenting on the announcement, Stockton West Conservative MP Matt Vickers said:
“The Labour Council sadly allowed Preston Park’s iconic aviary to become run down and an eyesore in recent years - but all it needs is a bit of TLC!
“I am delighted that the disused aviary will soon be sorted out thanks to funding from the last Conservative government’s £20 million Levelling Up fund.
“When the council decided it wasn’t a priority, I fought to ensure it was included in the programme of change for the park. It’s what residents want and it would have been a disaster to improve the park without sorting it out.
There’s lots of debate about whether animals could be reintroduced to the park and this represents a starting point for bringing the park up to date. It will complement the improvements to the play equipment, cafe toilets and exhibition space as well as that tribute to our railway heritage.
"It’s time for Stockton’s Labour Council to crack on with the work so the aviary is ready for everyone to enjoy.”
The restored aviary will complement a new, refurbished café, toilets and improved playpark – all delivered thanks to the Levelling Up Fund secured by Matt in 2021.
