PLANS to turn a former pump room in Harrogate into an educational facility which would cover the theme of the town’s spa heritage are set to be approved.

The Magnesia Well Pump Room, which dates back to 1858 and served sulphur water to visitors from throughout the world, is to be restored following a fundraising campaign by the Friends of Valley gardens and Harrogate Borough Council.

The scheme is expected to cost about £60,000. The refurbished building would be the centrepiece of a new tourist trail through the town’s Valley Gardens and work is earmarked to begin in the autumn if permission is granted.