THE final phase of work to revitalise Hartlepool's Burn Valley Gardens has been completed.

Over the past nine months, £150,000 has been channelled into improving the appearance and access to the gardens, off Blakelock Road.

Footpaths have been laid to allow people to explore more of the gardens, trees and shrubs have been planted and one of the footbridges over the burn has been repaired and refurbished with iron-effect railings.

The most striking addition is the double gates which have been installed at the Stockton Road entrance, featuring an unusual leaf design.

Standing more than two metres high, the metal gates were designed by artist Graeme Hopper, based on ideas from students of Cleveland College of Art and Design.

The phase two improvements were designed by Hartlepool Borough Council landscape architect Paul Jamieson, working closely with the Burn Valley Rejuvenation Consortium.

They were funded by Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC), Hartlepool council and the Government's Living Spaces and Doorstep Green initiatives.

Councillor Victor Tumilty, the council's cabinet member for culture, leisure and transportation, said: "There has been a real spirit of partnership in making these important improvements a reality, and I hope the new look gardens will give much pleasure to people of all ages."

Rob Emmerson, chairman of the Burn Valley Rejuvenation Consortium, said: "The improvements have certainly enhanced the appearance of the gardens and we are delighted that they are now completed. The icing on the cake is the new gates, which are magnificent."

Bryon Hanna, resident chairman of Hartlepool NDC, said: "The popularity of these gardens goes back to Victorian times. We hope that local residents admire the new features and that the gardens continue to be popular in the years to come."

A total of £290,000 has been invested in the gardens. The first phase of improvements, completed last year, involved the removal of the old children's play area and its replacement with a range of the latest play equipment.

Funding for that came from Hartlepool NDC, the Community Safety Capital Fund and the council's Central Neighbourhood Forum.