Plans for the next stage of work on Hylands park and house start to go on display to the public this Friday.

The scheme includes the restoration of the parkland to the designs of the renowned early 19th century landscape gardener, Humphrey Repton.

It would also reinstate the original "Widford Approach" drive for pedestrians and cyclists, which is expected to provide excellent views of the estate and house.

Another feature is the conversion of the stable block to a visitors' centre, with a craft studio and tearoom. Part of the old stables will also be renovated to house Suffolk Punch horses.

Among other works, it is aimed to make over the pleasure gardens with examples of Regency and Edwardian planting. The central pergola will be rebuilt and the paths resurfaced.

The home farm will be restored and adapted for parks services and the Flint Cottage - a former gamekeeper's house, now derelict - will be brought back to its original appearance.

Cllr Ian Roberts, Chelmsford Borough Council executive member for arts and leisure, said, "Repton is famous throughout the world for his contribution to English landscape gardening. This is a marvellous opportunity to bring back the magic of his work and to make the Hylands estate an international attraction."

The work is dependent on a £3 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The exhibition is in High Chelmer shopping centre from Friday to January 17, with staff available to answer questions Monday to Friday from 12 - 2pm, and on Saturday and Sunday from 12 - 3pm.

It can be seen at Hylands House from January 18 - 26

Published Tuesday, January 7, 2003

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