A NATURE reserve in Droitwich is set for a biodiversity boost as part of a wider leisure and wellbeing investment in the town.
Wychavon District Council is working with The Canal and River Trust to secure the 5.5 hectare wetland and reed bed complex at Coney Meadow, so it continues to be a rich haven for various wildlife.
The meadow is home to several species including Grasshopper Warblers, Cuckoos, Reed and Sedge Warblers, Swifts, Swallows and House Martins, who use the site for feeding and breeding.
Its flower-rich grasslands are also home to many different insects which play a crucial role in sustaining the meadow’s food chain.
But the lack of open water on the site and the threat of shrubs and bushes overgrowing other habitat could transform the reed beds into wet woodlands, rendering them unsuitable for these specialist species.
The restoration project will protect the meadow’s eco-system by creating ponds and enhancing the site’s water-holding capacity through diversion and retention of surface water from the canal.
Areas of the main reed bed will also be cut down and cleared to create open water and water-edge environments.
Footpaths will be upgraded using material from the pond to allow visitors to enjoy the meadow without disturbing wildlife.
Councillor Beverley Hardman, Wychavon’s executive board member for boosting natural capital, said: “We’re delighted to be working with the Canal & River Trust on the Coney Meadow enhancement project.
“This work will not only boost biodiversity but make it easier for residents to enjoy and connect with nature. This is just one part of our ongoing commitment to improving biodiversity across Wychavon.”
Ian Lane, head of operational partnerships and fundraising for The Canal and River Trust (West Midlands) shared Coun Hardman’s delight for the project.
He added: “We will manage Coney Meadow for both wildlife and community enjoyment beyond the life of this project.
“Together with Wychavon, we are ensuring a brighter future for Coney Meadow’s reed beds, benefitting nature and people alike.”
A video has been released exploring the project.
Visit https://youtu.be/lyhrI9EgHPc to watch.
