PLANS to open up the Walthamstow reservoirs to the public have been honoured at the London Planning Awards.

The area is to be developed into an urban nature reserve, including improved habitats and heritage trails, a visitor’s centre and a cafe overlooking the reservoir.

The plans were judged “Best Conceptual Project” at the awards, which recognises and rewards the best practice in planning in London.

Waltham Forest Council has made a bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund to raise money for the Wetlands while Thames Water has already donated 1.5 million to the project.