The objective of the Conservation Plan was to inform the restoration of a historic park to meet the objectives laid out by the ‘Parks for People’ Lottery programme. The reinstatement of the parks heritage was seen (by North Herts District Council) as a major factor underpinning the enhancement of the space for townspeople. An assessment of the history of the site was followed by an assessment of the cultural, historic and architectural importance of its 20th century buildings and associated features. The towns position next to a small stream (the River Hiz) had benefited its wool and malting trade and subsequent prosperity in early times. It accounts for the fact that Hitchin is one of the oldest continuously occupied urban centres in Hertfordshire. The restoration of the Bandstand and the front gates as well as the reinstatement of the River Hiz, historic orchards and willow (osier) would allow for a closer understanding of the historical use of the grounds for basket-making, lavender and leather manufacture (tannery’s).  This meant a vast improvement in the parks interpretation and the resulting social benefits.