A project, supported by Durham Wildlife Trust, has seen habitat improvements to a local wild space in Woolsington which have resulted in the return of wetland birds to the area. 

The conservation work was supported as part of Northumbrian Water’s Bluespaces Scheme, which is hosted by Durham Wildlife Trust, and aims to deliver water environment improvements across its regions. 

Working over several years, the project saw the original landowner and Woolsington Parish Council working together to plan a series of site and habitat improvements with a broader long-term objective of creating a nature reserve.

This project phase, which was funded jointly by Northumbrian Water’s Bluespaces scheme, local Parish and Ward councils and community donations,  was completed in 2023.  The improvements to the area led to the return of water birds to the ponds. The new landowner has continued to provide support and is working with the Parish Council and residents to enhance the area further.  

A new woodland footpath has created a longer circular route around the main pond whilst keeping visitors away from important wildlife areas to reduce disturbance. Community days, supported by the Tyne Rivers Trust, have included pond dipping, guided walks with wildlife experts, invertebrate sampling, interactive river models and volunteer task days.  The community engagement aspect of the project has helped inspire the local community to protect and care for a valuable Bluespace on their doorstep.

Ruby Merriman, Bluespaces Delivery Manager commented: “Bluespaces is all about enhancing spaces around water, making sure these areas are available and enjoyable for people, as well as helping them to become better for nature. We are proud to have jointly worked with Woolsington Parish Council and the other partners as they move into the next phase of their vision for the area.” 

The project team have also completed habitat improvements to the ponds, planting vegetation to enhance and diversify the pond edges, as well as creating shelter coves for wildlife and controlling invasive plant species.

It is expected and hoped that the site will become an important oasis for wildlife to thrive, as well as an essential recreational area for residents, contributing to their increased wellbeing.

A spokesperson for Woolsington Parish Council, said: “We were delighted to work in partnership with Northumbrian Water through its Bluespaces initiative. Bluespaces supported Parish Council ambitions to preserve and enhance natural habitats for wildlife and provide increased provision for community access at the Parish Ponds.

“The project enabled the creation of a new footpath through woodland and the management of a wetland habitat. Furthermore, this grant funding acted as a seed and, as a result, additional investment was attracted from other sources.

“The project was a huge success and Members of the Parish Council would like to express their sincere gratitude to Northumbrian Water and Tyne Rivers Trust for their input and support throughout.”

Other supporters of the project include: Tyne Rivers Trust, Taylor Wimpey, Environment Agency, Northumberland Wildlife Trust, and Newcastle City Council