A GRANT of £16,000 has seen a series of shallow ponds at the Avon Meadows in Pershore creation.
Wychavon District Council and the Friends of Avon Meadows have teamed up to complete a new phase of habitat improvement at the popular location.
Thanks to a grant of more than £16,000, awarded by Severn Waste Services through their Severn Waste Environmental Fund, the shallow pools have been designed to have scalloped edges that will provide plenty of soft, muddy edges that many wading birds need in order to feed.
Islands between the pools will create a safe haven for these birds to rest and hopefully nest, as birds like lapwing, curlew and snipe all nest on the ground.
The area of the new scrape will be completely enclosed by reed-fringed ditches, so the nesting birds can be safe from disturbance and predators.
It sits in an area of very wet grassland, so is ideally placed to hold water.
Liz Etheridge, Wychavon’s Wetlands for All project officer, said: “This is a fantastic project for Avon Meadows.
“These shallow pools are designed to slowly dry out through the summer, but always have a little bit of water in them.
“They’re not only great for wading birds, but for dragonflies and all sorts of water-loving wildlife.”
“Without the support of the Severn Waste Environmental Fund, none of this work would be possible.
“The benefits for wildlife will be brilliant, but it will also give local residents even more reason to come to Avon Meadows with even more birds and other wildlife to enjoy.” she added.
University of Worcester media student, Paul Attwood, has produced a series of aerial films and photos showing the wetlands and the work being done.
“I set out to make my short films to improve my media skills, but also to encourage a positive perspective and general awareness of the scheme.” he said.
“The Avon Meadows project offers a strong simple vision and a great environmental message that is worth communicating about in this exciting way.” he added.
One of Paul Attwood’s aerial views of the wetlands. (s)
