Major tree works take place on east marsh

This week tree contractors arrived to thin colonised willow around the east marsh, announcing the start of a new long-term management programme by Canal and River Trust.

An area between the two bird hides, and around the south-eastern edge of the reservoir was cleared to give more breathing space for the reed beds. It is hoped this will attract more warblers and bunting, and with the addition of new channels, even bittern. It also opens new vistas on the reservoir for walkers.

Trees came down on the River Brent peninsula and a small overgrown island next to it. This offers a new opportunity for waders. Greenery and reed revival will begin in the spring.

This is the first major investment in the area in decades, thanks to months of campaigning by Cool Oak.