Work is well on schedule to create a tranquil haven for wildlife and visitors alike at Rhuddlan by the end of March.
At the moment, heavy plant machinery is currently on site and is being used to restore the pond to its former glory – literally thousands of tonnes of material has been dredged up and removed, which will improve how the pond looks as well as improving wildlife habitats and creating the right balance between marginal vegetation and open water.
When finished, the pond will provide the main feature of the reserve. Other smaller ponds, scrapes and ditches have also been excavated in an adjacent field and this will provide additional habitat for many species and in particular the otter and water vole, which are known to visit the site.
Denbighshire’s Countryside Services officers have been working closely with pupils from Ysgol Y Castell, Rhuddlan, to develop information/interpretation boards and a leaflet to help explain the special features of the site to the visiting public. Emphasis has been given to the fantastic views out to the castle and to the biodiversity of the reserve.
Next week the old road will be taken up and replaced with a surfaced path allowing access for all.
Additional work to the site boundaries is ongoing. These are being secured and areas landscaped and planted with trees and shrubs. Wildflower meadows and butterfly glades are also being created.
The work will be completed by end of March and Denbighshire would like to thank members of the public for their patience whilst this work is being carried out. As part of the work, the site will close temporarily for Health and Safety reasons.
On completion, the project will be something that the residents of Rhuddlan can be proud of and under the guidance of the Management Advisory Group, the area will be formally designated a Local Nature Reserve which will ensure that the site is protected for future generations to enjoy.
