Green space preservation takes another step forward
An ambitious programme to protect and create green spaces for wildlife and communities continues with initial outline plans for another Local Nature Reserve (LNR) at the Cockshutt in Wrockwardine Wood.
Telford & Wrekin Council has already adopted 16 sites with evidence being gathered to support another LNR proposal.
The site is recognised as a Local Wildlife Site and the Friends of Cockshutt group is actively managing the area in partnership with the council where valuable heathland habitats are being secured and restored.
This work builds on the council’s commitment to support health and wellbeing by protecting green spaces in the borough.
The area is just one of a number of proposed LNRs, connecting a network of sites including Central Hall, Redhill Ecology Park and The Granville LNR to the east and the Green Guarantee sites of Albion Bank and Snedshill Viewpoint to the south.
Telford owes many of its green spaces to its industrial past and this is especially true of the Cockshutt where woodland, rough grassland and heathland, which is rare in Telford, sit among industrial remains.
The area provides homes for roosting bats, the rare dingy skipper butterfly and the heathland centre supports a range of breeding bird species including whitethroat, garden warbler, blackcap, willow warbler and linnet.
These green spaces provide opportunities throughout the town for quiet recreation, access to nature, volunteer activity and education.
As spring arrives, the site and many others across Telford, will come alive and provide opportunities for volunteering – a great way to get active, meet new people and be involved in the local community.
Councillor Arnold England, Cabinet member for health and wellbeing said: “Volunteering in a local green space is a great way to get active, meet new people and be involved in the local community.
“No special skills are needed, just time, outdoor clothes and plenty of enthusiasm. All across Telford groups of dedicated volunteers work hard to make their sites valuable for nature and for local people and as spring arrives the results of their efforts are clear to see.”
Access to the Cockshutt Local Wildlife Site in Wrockwardine Wood is accessible from Woodlands Drive (TF2 6LL).
