A project to restore an 18th century park to its former glory is set to bid for Heritage Lottery Fund help.

Catton Park, in Norfolk, was landscaper Humphry Repton's first paid commission in 1788 but the former parkland has become a mix of woods and farmland, some of which suffers from vandalism.

Now an application is being made to the Heritage Lottery Fund for money to draw up detailed plans to create a 70-acre public space on the edge of Norwich.

The proposal is being backed by Andrew Buxton and Norfolk County Council, who together own the former parkland.

It would be a great amenity for many local people

Ken Leggett

Ken Leggett, an Old Catton resident who is co-ordinating the application said: "The site is used informally by dog walkers but is also abused from time to time, with burned out cars being left there, abandoned.

"I'd really love to see it restored as park land for public use, with local schools able to come there and use it for lessons.

"We are not talking about getting it back just as it was in Repton's day, but it could be revived for quiet recreational use, with footpaths and cycle paths.

Original vision

"It would be a great amenity for many local people."

Mr Leggett said the possibility of re-creating the parkland in line with Repton's original vision had been considered, on and off, for many years.

Mr Buxton said: "Lack of funds has always been the obstacle to the restoration.

"The existence of the Heritage Lottery Fund Grant opens an avenue well worth exploring."

'Important initiative'

Derek Turnbull, deputy leader of Norfolk County Council, said: "This is an important initiative, but we all know the route in obtaining Lottery money is often a long and drawn out process."

If funding is obtained for the plan, a specialist consultant would be appointed, who will consult with local people, public bodies and other local groups before making recommendations.

This report would form the basis of the main submission to the Lottery for project funding.

The project is also supported by Norwich City Council, Broadland District Council and Old Catton Parish Council.