A Cobham community project has been shortlisted for an Open Spaces Society award, less than two months after reopening.

The Cobham Riverhill Project was one of three from across the country which has been placed on the short list for the Open Space award.

The Cobham Conservation and Heritage Trust (CCHT), with the help of Elmbridge Council and Surrey County Council, transformed the site in Mill Road into an accessible meadow with grassed riverbanks and a riverside viewing platform.

Members of the CCHT, schools, businesses, community groups and clubs have all played a part in the restoration works.

Sir Gerry Acher, chairman of the CCHT, said the project had been fundamental to the community for four reasons.

He said the project had created a focal point and recreation point for Cobham, provided pedestrian access suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs and would be an ongoing educational project for young people.

The riverhill project has also shown what can be done when the community works together.

David Tipping, vice-chairman of the CCHT, said: “We are over the moon because we are a small town and this includes England and Wales so that is quite an achievement.”

Tim Crowther, chairman of the Open Spaces Society, said: “This is an excellent example of local people working together to achieve something of real and lasting benefit to the community. We congratulate the Cobham Conservation and Heritage Trust on its efforts.”

The other projects shortlisted were the Friends of Tyneside Riverside Country Park, Newcastle and Widmer Fields, Buckinghamshire. The winner will be announced at the society’s AGM in Birmingham on Tuesday, July 16.