Canal and River Trust announces £85k winter works programme

Following a concerted first year of campaigning, we are pleased to announce reservoir owner Canal and River Trust has announced a new £85k package of winter works to improve the area around the east marsh. This is the first major investment in the area for many years.

The works include the removal of self-seeded willow in and around reed habitats, a full hydrographic survey and further plastic and debris removal from the marshland.

The works will take place in early 2022 and will be completed in time for the new breeding season in March 2022. They follow emergency debris removal in March 2021, and signal a new commitment from Canal and River Trust for ongoing and future restoration of this valuable and protected habitat.

Funding has also been secured for the staged replacement of the ageing breeding rafts. This work is expected to start in late 2022.