THE changing face of Mary Stevens Park continues following the unveiling of the refurbished main gates and opening of a new cafe.

A VIP unveiling was all part of a £3.1million restoration programme, £2.6m given from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and the Big Lottery Fund, which is set to be completed next summer.

The Grade II listed gates, which were originally made by the same company which created those of Buckingham Palace, were also modelled on the entrance to the famous royal residence.

They were installed in 1931 and were dedicated to the people of Stourbridge by philanthropist Ernest Stevens as a tribute to his late wife Mary.

Throughout the past 80 years, the gates have gradually deteriorated and following years of campaigning from the Stourbridge Township Council, the gates have finally been restored to their former grandeur.

Campaigning from late member John Shepherd persuaded councillors to allocate cash towards the park’s restoration project and bid for extra funding.

John's wife and current township council clerk, Kari Shepherd, said the gates being restored is part of the legacy left behind by her late husband.

She said: “John fought for such a long time to get the gates restored so it is wonderful that it has finally happened. They are not quite finished yet, but they look lovely.

“It is a tribute to him as well as the people of Stourbridge because they deserve to have a beautiful looking town.”

Margaret Scott, township council chairman, said: “After the years of campaigning I am delighted to see them in-situ and looking absolutely beautiful.

“I’m very pleased with the work that has been done, as well as everyone who helped to secure the lottery funding.

“It’s just a shame that a number of the township councillors who were instrumental in getting the gates restored are no longer with us and have not been able to see the fruits of their labours.

“I am now looking forward to seeing the rest of the park when the restoration is completed.” 

The £3.1m restoration programme will also see upgrades made to the park's railings, bandstand, war memorial and pool.

Councillor Hilary Bills, Dudley cabinet member for environmental services, said: “I am delighted to see the work that has been done so far at Mary Stevens Park.

“A very big thank you goes out to all of our funders, contractors and volunteers for their support and hard work.

“I would also like to thank the public for bearing with us as we make temporary changes to the regular functioning of the park.”