Onlookers were given a first glimpse of what a new residents-led park could look like when it opens next year.

About 250 supporters gathered in Cottenham Park Road to meet the team that will manage Morley Park, a new community space on the old Atkinson Morley Hospital site.

Morley Park Trust, a community trust, will replace Merton Council as the managers of the park after Berkeley Homes agreed to fund it as part of their agreement after getting permission to build 79 new homes on the site.

Patricia Keith, chairman of the residents’ association of West Wimbledon, said: “We have had hundreds of letters sent from residents to the council in support of the idea of a community trust.

“This park is very different because it has wildlife in areas other parks do not.”

By 2013, Berkeley Homes aims to provide 79 new homes, three football pitches, an eco-meadow, walking trail, cottage and a sports pavilion.

Lung, an umbrella group of residents’ associations, has campaigned to preserve the park for 30 years and has actively raised funds for the Morley Park Trust.

The group’s chairman, Nick Smith, said: “The park was originally a gift for patients at the hospital to recuperate in, in perpetuity.

“It is going to be part of that ongoing spirit but for all residents.”

Got a story for us? Call 020 8722 6333, tweet @WimbledonNews or email: newsdesk@wimbledonguardian.co.uk.