Plans to refurbish one of the capital's most beautiful historic buildings have been approved.

Chiswick House will be returned to its former glory in a £12million project that includes restoration of the interior and the gardens.

The English Heritage proposals also include a new cafÈ and restaurant, refurbishment of the conservatory, the erection of a temporary marquee for four months of the year, improved parking and a children's play area.

Hounslow council approved the plans despite protests from residents' groups angry that it would mean 350 trees being cut down. English Heritage has pledged to plant 1,600 trees in their place.

Project director Martin Clayton said: "We are absolutely delighted. Now we just await a decision from the Heritage Lottery Fund on whether our Stage 2 bid for funding has been successful. This will be announced next month and work could start as early as the spring."

Chiswick House, which is Grade I-listed, was built between 1726 and 1729.

The grounds were created at around the same time by Lord Burlington who, with designer William Kent, unveiled the original English landscape garden.

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