AFTER years of delays and frustration, work is finally expected to start on the multi-million pound visitor centre at Hagley Hall.

Contractors were expected to begin work in 2015 but planning approval was required for surrounding roads following concerns from Worcestershire Highways.

Plans for an entrance/exit onto the A456 Hagley Causeway are now in the final stages of consultation, and pending agreement, it means work will begin in the coming months.

The 12th Viscount Cobham, Chris Lyttelton, who runs the hall, said: “It has been a long process. We have been through a huge consultation for the past three years.

“We got planning permission years ago but we have had to go through Worcestershire Highways for the roads.

“We have just about agreed everything we have needed to.

“We are now finalising plans to start on the foundation work for the centre itself.

“The work should start in the next months and we are hoping by Autumn or early Spring next year it will be done.”

It is hoped the new Visitor’s Centre in the stately home’s stunning ground could turn Hagley Park into a major UK tourist attraction.

Lord Cobham said there has been “no change” to the initial plans from three years ago, which also include a restaurant, gift shop, study rooms and a three-bedroom ranger's house, as well as a children's play area and parking for up to 180 vehicles, including coaches.

He added: “I am desperately keen to get the public into the park.

“The gardens are stunning with the bluebells flowering at the moment.

“I am very keen that it gets open for everybody to enjoy.”