The vast network of 10 lakes provides water to 1.5million people in the capital and cover over 200 hectares. But many of the 300,000 people who live within two miles of the site have no idea that a green space bigger than Richmond Park exists on their doorstep.

Now thanks to a £4.4m grant from HLF the reservoirs are set to be transformed. With new entrances, foot and cycle pathways and a visitor centre built in an old pump house, it’s hoped that the new wetlands will attract many more people looking to spend some time outdoors.

[quote=Dr Tom Tew, HLF Trustee ]“We loved this partnership project and so are pleased to be helping to make it happen”[/quote]

And with detailed habitat conservation work planned, visitors of the furry kind including otters and water voles are also set to benefit. It’s desperately needed as the 2013 State of Nature report found that 57% of freshwater and wetland species have declined over the last 50 years.

The project is a result of a partnership between Waltham Forest Council, Thames Water - who own the site - and The London Wildlife Trust, who will take over the day-to-day management when complete. The new wetlands will be free to visit when finished in two years-time.

Walthamstow Wetlands