Work has started on a major upgrade to the cafe at Bramhope’s Golden Acre Park.

The scheme, which will cost more than £170,000, will see a new conservatory added to the existing building. There will also be improved toilet facilities for disabled visitors and baby changing facilities.

The project will be funded through a Leeds City Council partnership with local company Franklin Windows, who are providing £100,000 worth of work in return for sponsorship benefits at the park and cafe.

The scheme was given the go-ahead by the council last year and building work started this month.

The cafe has been unable to cope with the volume of visitors at the busiest times of day, but the upgrade will increase the indoor seating capacity from 46 to 86.

Josh Franklin said: “Leeds is fortunate to have a number of parks, of which Golden Acre is particularly attractive.

“It is especially significant to us as my grandad, Clifford Franklin, loved it and when he died we erected a bench there in his memory.

“We at Franklin Windows Ltd are thrilled the project has now officially started. We are looking forward to transforming the Bakery Cafe with a beautifully designed conservatory.

“Our grandad would have been so proud to know we are creating part of the landscape at one of Leeds’ loveliest locations whilst also ensuring that more visitors can enjoy the delights of the cafe.”