Along with Stratford-on-Avon District Council, we are pleased to announce that we have appointed Trust Nature Services Ltd, (a wholly owned subsidiary of Warwickshire Wildlife Trust), as partners to assist with the long-term management of the Stratford-upon-Avon Local Nature Reserve.
In 2023, the northern area of the 71-acre site was designated a Local Nature Reserve for the benefit of wildlife and the community, following consultation with Natural England. A 30-year Framework Landscape Ecological Management Plan (FLEMP) has been created for the site, allowing for further enhancement of habitats to increase and preserve biodiversity.
Sara Aspley, Chief Executive at Stratford Town Trust said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the team at Warwickshire Wildlife Trust who will be instrumental in helping us to manage the site over the long-term. Their experience in protecting wildlife and wild places will aid the conservation of the existing biodiversity of the site and contribute to its future enhancement. They will also be leading our volunteer working parties, playing a vital role in involving and engaging communities to improve health and wellbeing.”
Cllr Susan Juned, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon District Council said: “The appointment of Warwickshire Wildlife Trust will ensure that this area is properly managed and supported to provide local communities with an area of high-quality green space as well as protecting wildlife habitats, whilst helping us in enhancing the biodiversity within the District.
“As a District Council we are committed to deliver climate adaptation measures, which is part of our Council Plan and we have recently declared an ecological emergency to reinforce this ongoing work.”
Karl Curtis, Director of Nature Reserves from Warwickshire Wildlife Trust said: “We are looking forward to working in partnership to assist in the management of the Stratford-upon-Avon Local Nature Reserve. This is a key part of our work in identifying important habitats to enhance and conserve and to bring wildlife back. This is an important contribution to ensuring 30% of the county is in recovery for nature by 2030 and given its proximity to the town and to local schools, the site will welcome everyone as well as a place for people to take positive action for wildlife in their local environment.”
Find out how to get involved with volunteering opportunities at the Stratford-upon-Avon Local Nature Reserve here.