The National Trust has applied for planning permission for an ambitious restoration programme on the lake and watercourse at Croome Park.

The trust is currently seven years into a ten-year restoration project at the park, once part of the Coventry estate. It expects to draw up a further ten-year programme of work after that.

Malvern Hills District Council has been asked to approve the creation of three wetland areas on strategic sites. They will filter out nitrate pollution from neighbouring farmland and oil, diesel and road salt pollution from the M5, "restoring the quality of lake and river water to that enjoyed by the Lake District".

Part of the project is to dredge the lake and open up the overgrown river. The river habitat is important for wildlife, so that part of the project is being done in two stages. The second stage will come on line in 2005, when the alternative wetland habitats have had time to establish themselves.

Meanwhile, badgers and bats will be the focus of attention for nocturnal visitors to Croome Park. The National Trust is holding bat and badger walks on Saturday, May 10.

The badger event starts at 2pm, with a talk by expert Penny Cresswell Lewns. It will be followed by a walk to look for signs of the creatures. It costs £6.50 for adults, £5 for children over eight.

The bat walk is at 8pm, beginning with a talk by Rebecca Collins, aided by her pet bat. It costs £6.50, including refreshments. Both events must be pre-booked on 01905 371006.