AMBITIOUS plans to revamp the “unwelcoming” entrance to a popular beauty spot between Petersfield and Clanfield have been revealed.

Proposals to give the visitors’ centre at Queen Elizabeth Country Park (QECP) a much-needed makeover have been drawn up by county council architects.

The building, which dates from 1974, will be reconfigured with a larger and more accessible cafe, with full height windows taking the place of the theatre.

The entrance will be brightened while a new kitchen, refurbished toilets and a range of flexible and lettable rooms are also proposed.

The application to the South Downs National Park Authority follows a decision by Hampshire County Council (HCC) to make a “once in a generation investment” of £400,000 into improving visitor facilities.

Hampshire’s largest country park attracts around 350,000 people a year and visitor numbers have increased by 14 per cent in recent years.

“Feedback from our public consultation was that the building felt unwelcoming from its northern entrance,” reads the council’s design and access statement.

“So the entrance procession will be addressed to create a clear transformation of the visitors’ centre, with full height windows to the newly formed cafe and reception to connect the inside of the building with the landscape.

“The ambition is to create glimpses through the refurbished cafe to the courtyard and beyond.”