Councillors have backed plans to restore an underutilised country park in Iver.

Bucks County Council’s cabinet approved plans to restore the 54-acre former gravel pit and landfill site at Thorney Park on Monday (March 5), and residents will be invited to contribute to the proposals.

Ideas include a playing field and a community park with new planting, modern facilities and opportunities to study wildlife.

A contractor will be appointed and given a year to consult with residents.

If planning permissionis given a lease will be granted to bring in materials to create the new park – at the contractors expense.

The park will be handed back to the county council once work is completed – and is expected to earn the authority around £6 million over six years in licensing fees.

Cabinet member for resources, John Chilver, said: “This scheme not only enhances the landscape and creates an amenity for residents in south Buckinghamshire, it will produce enough income during the restoration period for us to provide vital services more widely to the county’s residents.

"The county council could sell the park, but this is very important piece of land in a strategic location. We're conscious of our stewardship responsibility, and we don't want to lose control of important public amenity space in the face of future Heathrow expansion plans."

The materials will be delivered  via rail - reducing the potential impact heavy goods vehicles could have on the site.