Eight Teignbridge nature reserves are set for a wildlife boost after councillors approved £321,806 of funding linked to the A382 road widening and active travel scheme.
The funding will support a four-year programme of habitat improvements, visitor information and community activities across the District.
Teignbridge councillors approved the project at a meeting on Tuesday 28 July.
The scheme includes species surveys, reedbed cutting, better scrub management and the removal of invasive species.
At Decoy, a new boardwalk will help protect marsh and wetland habitats.
Information boards will also be added at the sites, and events held, to help visitors learn more about local wildlife and why the sites are special.
A habitat ranger will be employed for four years to carry out the work.
The nature reserves that will benefit from the funding are:
-Aller Brook local nature reserve and county wildlife site in Buckland and Milber ward
-Churchills local nature reserve in Newton Abbot
-Decoy Country Park in Newton Abbot
-Hackney Marshes local nature reserve in Kingsteignton
-Jetty Marsh local nature reserve in Teigngrace
-Little Haldon Heaths county wildlife site in Bishopsteignton
-Orley Common county wildlife site in Denbury and Torbryan ward
-Wharf Road Sidings local nature reserve in Newton Abbot
Speaking on behalf of Cllr Charles Nuttall, Executive Member for Environment, Cllr Jackie Hook said: “Our Local Nature Reserves and County Wildlife Sites give wildlife space to feed, rest and shelter. They are also important places for local people to enjoy and learn about nature. This funding will improve our reserves, support wildlife and give our communities more chances to enjoy nature on their doorstep. It is good news for Teignbridge and supports the wider A382 project and active travel improvements.”
Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Biodiversity, said: “This is wonderful news for these nature reserves. These special places are vital for wildlife and provide valuable opportunities for people to connect with nature. The habitat monitoring and improvements will benefit both visitors and local wildlife. Helping to protect these precious wild and natural areas and their associated environments is essential to ensure our wildlife can thrive and in doing so support local health and wellbeing. This investment will support the opportunity for the natural environment and wild heritage to be enjoyed for generations to come.”
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