Warrington Borough Council (WBC) has reaffirmed its commitment to refurbish Walton Hall Estate and Gardens, despite not being in a position to fund the scheme.

According to the council, the levels of investment needed to restore and sustain the estate in the coming years is beyond the resources available, while bids for grant support proving unsuccessful. WBC's executive board agreed to the proposed regeneration of the estate two years ago, which would have enhanced the leisure facilities on offer - such as the golf course and children's zoo.

Proposals include the refurbishment of the main Walton Hall and the creation of an academy to improve the golf facilities, as well as a new creative approach for the parkland. A WBC spokesperson said: "Last year we explored potential interest through a national marketing campaign. A good deal of attention was received but many of the proposals were rejected as they did not reflect our stated aspirations for the estate.

"We are currently considering a range of plans and options all of which would maintain the existing free public access. Some options include buildings not presently open to the public being made accessible."