A HERITAGE site where Swanscombe's prehistoric man was found after 400,000 years has received £8,000 funding for a play area, and improved site access.

Swanscombe Heritage Park, in Craylands Lane, was given the money by Barclay's SiteSavers, which was set up to transform derelict land into new facilities to be used for relaxation.

The funding will pay for surveys to be carried out.

If they are approved more funding will be made available.

Natural History Museum fossil expert in human evolution Chris Stringer said: “This is an important site and any funding which recognises its status is welcome.

“Swanscombe man, is not a modern human, but possibly an ancestor of Neanderthals who are more than 400,000 years old.

“He would have lived in a war period alongside elephants, rhinos and red deer.”

A spokesman for the park said: “We are grateful Barclays recognised the significance of the area and were prepared to help fund improvements.”

Dartford MP Dr Howard Stoate said: “This is excellent news for Swanscombe because the park remains under-used by the community and has suffered from abuse by motorcylists.

“Not only will this project help to regenerate the park but it will also give jobs to local youths and adults without specific skills or training.”

Swanscombe man is on display at Swanscombe Heritage Park.

For more information, call 01322 385849.