Being able to access Brandon Reach is a step closer now that the first improvements of new gates, fences and a bridge are in place at the site just north of Brandon Marsh Nature Centre.
The project, which is being funded by a £47,329 grant from FCC Communities Foundation, will provide disabled access gates, new way markers and interpretation and fencing to allow more people to reconnect with nature and do that in a safer environment. Whilst COVID-19 has delayed the project start, it is hoped completion will be in November 2020.
Karl Curtis, Director of Reserves and Community Engagement at Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, is excited that the project is starting to take shape.
He says: “It’s great to see our vision for this wonderful space for people and wildlife is moving closer to reality. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated how valuable our nature reserves and green spaces are - so to be able to make them accessible to the local community is excellent and much needed. We are extremely grateful for the funding FCC Communities Foundation has given us and the improvements will create a safer and more accessible environment as well as help address access issues that are anti-social.”
FCC Communities Foundation is a not-for-profit business that awards grants for community projects through the Landfill Communities Fund.
Richard Smith, FCC Communities Foundation Senior Grant Manager says: "We’re delighted to be supporting the access improvement works at Brandon Reach and pleased our funding will benefit so many people across Coventry. FCC Communities Foundation is always happy to consider grant applications for projects that improve local communities and we’re looking forward to this one making a difference very soon.”
Over the next couple of months there will be contractors on the reserve undertaking important upgrades to the access network and installing new way markers and interpretation panels. It’s really important that whilst the site remains open, people take care during this time and during this short period of inconvenience where we may have to close paths. However, the long-term benefits to local people will be worth the wait.
For more information about the project follow us on social media to get updates as work starts.
Stunning new gates in place as work begins on Brandon Reach
Warwickshire Wildlife Trust is creating an improved and accessible nature reserve for the local community on the outskirts of Coventry and work is now underway.