ONE of the most historical buildings in the borough is to be restored to its former glory thanks to a £2million cash boost.

Manor Farm Park, in Ruislip, will be restored, developed and opened to the public after Hillingdon Council get final approval of the grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The council was awarded £267,500 by the HLF to draw up more detailed plans during stage one in March last year and the HLF pledged a further £1,715,000 when plans were completed and approved.

The full amount has now been awarded and work to rejuvenate Manor Farm will start in the next few weeks.

Sue Bowers, regional manager for HLF in London, said: "Manor Farm is one of Ruislip's real gems, with a history that spans almost 1,000 years.

"We are thrilled to help bring its past to life for many more local people and visitors.

"At the moment the public can't see a lot of the buildings, and this scheme will open up the Great Barn, farmyards and ancillary buildings for the first time."

Manor Farm House, the grade II listed building within the grounds of the park, will also be fully restored and opened to the public, as well as the Great Barn and Little Barn.

Part of the restoration work will include revealing the original features, which are currently hidden under modern additions, and the central area will be re-landscaped.

Trisha Grimshaw, assistant director of cultural services, education, youth and leisure for Hillingdon Council, said: "We are delighted the second phase of the project can now begin on schedule to restore this unique site and provide facilities that can be enjoyed by everyone.

"The council's financial commitment to this project, along with the grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, have made it possible to plan the programme of works, which we hope to be completed by the end of summer 2007.

"I would very much like to thank our community partners in the project, the members of the Manor Farm Working Party. Their on-going support and advice has been invaluable."