NEWPORT'S historic Belle Vue Park is to be restored to its former glory, thanks to £2 million of lottery cash.

Today Newport council announces the lottery award and unveils a programme of restoration for Belle Vue, centering on its historic pavilion, which is to be transformed into an conference and exhibition centre.

Work is set to start before the end of the summer, and the pavilion should be completed in time for the park's 110th anniversary in 2004.

Landscape architect Russel Bartram said: "The pavilion and conservatories will be restored and the park staff will be based here.

"The philosophy is to put it back to how it was in the 19th century, but used as a park for the 21st century.

"It's the most important park of its type in Wales and part of our heritage." Newport council has al-ready received Stage One funds from the National Ass-embly to plan the restoration.

It has been working with consultants to ensure the park is restored as closely as possible to its original state, including plantings.

Belle Vue will get a full-time park manager, and original features, including two lodges, conservatories and bandstand, will be res-tored to their 19th century glory. Deputy Mayor Glyn Jarvis, cabinet member for culture and recreation, said: "Belle Vue Park has been enjoyed by many people over the last century.

"This grant means that the council can now go ahead with the restoration which has been our ambition for many years."

Head gardener Sara Harrison said: "People come here for wedding pictures. When it's restored there could be some beautiful shots taken ."