Belper River Gardens in Derbyshire have reopened to the public after work on the first stage of a major refurbishment scheme to preserve and upgrade the site was completed.

Phase one of the project has been carried out by Alfreton-based contractor, EMS Civils, which included piling work to stabilise the banks of the River Derwent and the reconstruction of the walls, the mill lade, paths and the gardens' play area. The first stage took eight months to complete at a cost of around £750,000. The second phase is expected to get underway in October and will involve the replanting of lost trees and shrubs. Amber Valley Borough Council (AVBC) is also planning a design competition for the third stage, which will focus on the park's Swiss tearooms.

Funding for the new play area established as part of phase one of the Belper River Gardens scheme was secured through a £40,000 contribution from AVBC, along with £50,000 from the People Millions scheme run by ITV and the Big Lottery Fund, following a successful funding application by the Friends of Belper River Gardens.