Campaigners hoping to save a willow tree from being felled as part of a park redevelopment will meet with the council to discuss its future.

The Friends of Headstone Manor Park want to protect the tree, which could be cut down as part of a project led by Harrow Council.

According to the group, the council proposed felling the tree to allow Yeading Brook to form part of a new picnic area.

It is part of a scheme partially financed by the Heritage Lottery Fund, which will see Headstone Manor Park “revived” to the tune of around £2 million.

This will include more play equipment and furniture in the park, as well as new footpaths, bridges and signs.

The council will also use the money to revamp the historic orchard and restore the watercourses, including Yeading Brook.

Stephen Mills, chairman of the friends’ group, explained there is “no objection” to the Yeading Brook section of the works but that there are other avenues which could be explored to save the willow.

Reshma Shah, who regularly uses the park, launched a petition urging the council to rethink its proposals to cut down the tree.

She explained how the tree is popular with children and has been there as long as she can remember.

“Initially I wanted to ask the council to postpone the felling – I don’t know if this will stop them but at least we can start a dialogue,” she said.

“I’ve been overwhelmed with the support to the petition and, particularly with everything that’s going on in the world, we can hopefully save something that’s loved by lots of people.”

The friends’ group has scheduled a meeting with Harrow Council representatives for September 19, where it will hope to secure an update on the tree’s future.

Harrow Council said it will comment on the issue after the meeting has been held.