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THE ROYAL Hampshire Memorial Garden in Winchester is set for a revamp in a bid to increase public use.

Hampshire council chiefs have approved a £70,000 scheme to improve landscaping, signage and accessibility.

Built in 1732, Serle House in Southgate Street was the headquarters of the Hampshire Regiment for more than 200 years.

The grounds that surround the house include a war memorial, plaques and seats dedicated to those killed in action and former members of the regiment. The site has also been used for the scattering of ashes.

When council chiefs bought the grade II listed building in 2001, they promised to refurbish the property, continue its use as a military museum and find a civic use for the house and garden.

But a council report says "since the purchase, no significant resources have been spent on the garden."

Now the curator of Hilliers Garden has drawn up proposals to redesign the garden, including spaces to commemorate past battles. For example, a rocky dry area for a Mediterranean campaign. There will also be more seating, paths and handrails plus a second flagpole.

The proposals have been approved by the Hampshire Memorial Garden Trust and the Museums Trust. The county council will have to apply for listed building consent before embarking on the scheme. Meanwhile shrubs will be pruned and minor planting done, say officials.

8:37pm Wednesday 21st May 2008

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