There was 'cautious optimism' a grant would be secured to renovate a historic park ten years ago this week.

The people of Wanstead and Woodford have been asked how they would spend £3 million breathing new life into a historic park.

Wanstead Park was put on English Heritage’s ‘at risk’ register in 2009, amid concerns about the state of its waterways and woodlands, as well as the condition of historic features such as its 18th century grotto.

Following the public consultation, a final plan will be drawn up in March and the Corporation of London – which manages Wanstead Park as part of Epping Forest – will use that to bid for cash from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Ralph Potter, 58, of the Wanstead Parklands Community Project, said: “I’m cautiously optimistic that we can secure the grant. I’d be surprised if it didn’t happen.

“The waterways are in desperate need of restoration. Two of the ponds – Heronry Pond and Ornamental Water – are actually leaking, so that has to be addressed.

“The park’s biodiversity has changed dramatically. It used to be a much more formal landscape but it hasn’t been maintained as that for years.”

Mr Potter warned the project faced increased competition for grants, as the HLF had reduced the proportion of money applicants needed to contribute from 25 to 10 per cent.

Alan Cornish, 71, of the Friends of Wanstead Park, said: “The consultants have done an excellent job, and the level of detail is impressive.”

The draft proposals have been produced by Chris Blandford Associates, the environmental consultants appointed by the Corporation of London to oversee the project.

Residents have until February 28 to have their say.

The plans are on display at the Temple in Wanstead Park. Copies of of the proposals and the consultation questionnaire are also available from Wanstead Library.