ONE of the region’s most historic and iconic gardens is in line for a massive £7 m restoration.

Fore more than 200-years, Scarborough’s South Cliff Gardens have been a top tourist attraction but now need restoring.

A detailed development scheme is now being drawn up following news that that an initial £334,000 Heritage Lottery grant has been awarded to the council.

Scarborough Borough Council chief executive, Jim Dillon, said the restoration was being linked to the Spa Cliff Stabilisation project which has been earmarked for £4.7m of HLF funding.

Mr Dillon said: “The aim is to save the unique and enchanting heritage of the gardens from a point of critical decline and to breathe new life into them so they appeal to 21sxt century communities and become a vibrant and well-used park once again.”

The scheme will build on the work of The Friends of South Cliff Gardens who have worked to improve the gardens for the past decade.

Historic features will be restored, with new additions created including a fitness park and fairy sculpture trail.