One of Carlisle’s parks will be getting a major refurbishment, as well as a memorial to a well-known councillor.

Major improvement works will be starting at St James’ Park in Denton Holme next month.

The works are expected to finish in May.

Among the works to be carried out is the installation of a new circular seat with a central tree, in memory of long-serving Denton Holme councillor Hugh McDevitt.

Labour councillor Mr McDevitt represented Denton Holme for many years, both on Carlisle City Council and Cumbria County Council.

He was first elected as a ward councillor in Denton Holme in 1995.

Mr McDevitt, known locally as “Mr Denton Holme”, died in 2018 at the age of 70.

He was well-known, well-liked and well-respected across Denton Holme and Carlisle.

Friend and long-time Labour Party colleague Elsie Martlew said of Mr McDevitt: “He was always conscientious, and caring; and the people of Denton Holme benefited enormously from that.”

Another of his colleagues, city councillor Colin Glover, described Mr McDevitt as “really well-loved in Denton Holme.

“He was a real ambassador for his ward, through both the city and the county councils,” he said.

As well as the creation of the memorial, new seats and litter bins will be installed, and the paths will be refurbished.

A new flight of steps will also be built for access from St James’ Road.

The main park will be closed to the public access from March until May.

The play area will stay open throughout most of the works, with access from the rear of Colville Street.

Councillor Elizabeth Mallinson, portfolio holder for communities, health and wellbeing, said: “We would like to thank all the residents and members of the local community that took the time to take part in the consultation.

“Residents and park users are clearly enthusiastic to see investment in the site, which remains a valuable community asset. Their views have had a big impact on the final plans.

We would like to thank all residents and park users for their patience whilst the park undergoes this major redevelopment.”