Plans to transform Felixstowe Seafront Gardens have moved forward after Suffolk Coastal District Council (SCDC) submitted its final bid for National Lottery funding.

In July 2009, the park was one of seven to receive first-round passes as part of the Heritage Lottery Fund's (HLF) Parks for People initiative. SCDC has now submitted its final round grant application for £2.2m towards the cost of the project, which is expected to cost in the region of £2.7m.

Work will include better access; seating and lighting; restored ponds and heritage features; a heritage trail; and an outdoor performance space. Mary Neale, SCDC's cabinet member for countryside and leisure and the Seafront Gardens project team, said: "The gardens are important to many residents and visitors to the area so it is important that they are restored to a high standard.

"Public consultations have shaped plans based on residents and visitors needs and what is important to them."