A "neglected" park in Hounslow could be transformed into a picturesque nature reserve under new plans.

Users of Northcote Avenue Open Space in Isleworth , better known as the Pit Park, say they are working on proposals with Hounslow Council to create "something really special".

The public park was mired in controversy last year when it was leased by the council for horses to graze , without local residents on the Worple estate being consulted.

The horses were moved at the end of 2015, and the park, believed to be named after its former use as a Victorian rubbish dump, has since been closed pending rolling and re-seeding by the council.

Neighbours on the estate have banded together to form the Friends of Northcote Nature Reserve in a bid to improve the site and attract more visitors.

Application to give park protected 'village green' status

A wildflower meadow, a wildlife habitat along the River Crane, and improvements to paths and signs within the park are among outline proposals drawn up by architect Dean Griffiths, whose garden backs on to the park.

The group says local residents are now being asked for their views before the plans are finalised.

Vanessa Smith, who chairs the friends group, said the park had been allowed to deteriorate and was mainly used by dog walkers.

"This is an exciting opportunity to turn a neglected space into something really special for local people and wildlife," she added.

She said the consultation results would be discussed at a forthcoming public meeting and the friends group hoped to work with environmental groups including the Environment Agency, London Wildlife Trust and Thames 21 to bring the project to fruition.

The group has also applied to the council for the park to be granted 'village green' status, protecting it against future development.

Hounslow Council leader Steve Curran said: "We look forward to working with the public on this collaborative project and transforming the Northcote Avenue Open Space into a landscaped area and public open space for everyone to enjoy."