Watermead Land Improvement

"There is great potential to increase the amount of plants, animals and birds in the country park"

The improvements have tackled an area at the northern end of the park that was closed to the public and included dereliction from previous minerals uses.

Organisation: Leicestershire County Council

Completion Date: 31/05/2004

Location

Watermead Country Park, near Wanlip, between Syston and Birstall, North Leicester

Project Description

This project will bring a major extension to what is already the largest reedbed in Leicestershire to create a really special wildife site. It will provide an exciting new wildlife and recreational resource for both the local community and visitors from the wider region – Ernie White, Cabinet Lead Member for Community Services, Leicestershire County Council

Background
Watermead Country Park is one of Leicestershire's premier countryside visitor attractions and is well used for walking, cycling, picnics, birdwatching, fishing and more active water sports. It has developed some excellent wildlife habitats and is home to a wide range of plants, animals and birds.

Improvements made
This area has even greater potential for wildlife, however, and the project has improved and extended habitats and provided public access. The work has included development and extension of reedbeds, hedgerow, and wild flower meadows, a new lake and provision of paths, bird hides, new parking and a noise barrier.

Outcomes

• The project has progressed rapidly thanks to funding commitments from the Leicester Shire Economic Partnership, English Nature, Leicestershire County Council, Charnwood Borough Council, the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust and the Environment Agency.
• Work began in March 2003 and the improvements were completed in May 2004.

Project Contacts

Project manager:
Mike Thomson
Tel: 0116 265 7090
E-mail: mthomson@leics.gov.uk
Website: www.leics.gov.uk

LSEP contact:
Andy Rose
Tel: 0116 257 5677
Email: andyr@lsep.co.uk
Website: www.lsep.co.uk