A CONSERVATION park in Abingdon is set for a £40,000 four-year restoration project.

Work will start in the spring to help preserve the Grade II listed Albert Park, which was landscaped in 1864 for the benefit of townspeople.

The project will be funded by a donation made to park owners Christ’s Hospital.

Robert Farrant, master of the charity, said: “The aim of the extensive restoration work is to protect and preserve the fine specimen trees and shrubs.

“Some of these are in danger of being crowded out by the rampant growth of evergreens, notably leylandii and laurel.

“What’s more, the very rapid growth of evergreens has seriously obstructed the fine vistas.”

The project will be overseen by arboriculturist Roderick Nicholson, who has advised on heritage parks throughout the country.

Chris Nutman, clerk to the governors of Christ’s Hospital, said: “Only the sections of the park that are being worked on at any one time will be cordoned off for health and safety reasons.

“We do not expect the work to affect users other than them avoiding the areas that are being worked on.”