Cuttings: Prior's progress

THE National Trust will soon become the owner of Prior Park near Bath. The park, covering about 35 acres, surrounds a college run by the Congregation of Christian Brothers. It was laid out for Ralph Allen in the mid-18th century, following the principles of Capability Brown. Like Stowe, it recreates an Arcadian landscape, complete with lake and Palladian bridge. Restoration will take three years and is expected to cost pounds 500,000. Special open days will be held this year to watch work in progress.