Plans to revitalise a park – which could include the felling of a popular willow tree – were given a boost after securing £1.5 million of Lottery funding.

The National Lottery Heritage Fund awarded the money for a scheme led by Harrow Council at Headstone Manor Park.

There are plans to introduce a wetland area, plant more trees, install play equipment and improve the park’s footpaths.

Yeading Brook is also set to be restored as part of the scheme, though this could lead to a prominent willow tree being cut down.

The Friends of Headstone Manor Park have campaigned to save the tree and suggested ways the improvement works could still take place without its felling.

Cllr Varsha Parmar, who is responsible for the environment at Harrow Council, confirmed earlier this month that the council was exploring possibilities to save the tree.

She said they are “working very hard to preserve it” and that no final decision will be taken until at least January.

But she warned she “can’t guarantee” the tree will be saved as the council will still carry out improvement works at the park.

She added that the council “cherishes” its parks and green spaces and that they form an important part of supporting the borough’s environment.

Council officers explained that the health of the tree could determine its future.

They must also consider the existing root system and if it safe to keep the tree standing once the improvement works have taken place.

The council said the overall plans follow an 18-month consultation, including open day events to gather the views of Harrow residents, park users and friends’ groups.

But some campaigners felt the plans did not completely outline the impact on the park’s landscape, with the future of the willow tree not fully addressed from the outset.