Wildlife welcome in Montgomery regeneration

The latest Montgomery canalside attraction is the result of eight months specialist work by British Waterways staff and volunteers. The five acre site was physically dug out and shaped to create a diverse wildlife habitat for native species such as dragonflies and a wide range of aquatic plants. It is hoped the increasingly rare water vole may also choose to relocate into the reserve.

For the final phase of work, pupils from Maesbury Primary School are teaming up with local landowner Tudor Griffiths of Griffiths Estates to mark its completion.

The £300,000 project has been financed by the Heritage Lottery Fund, European Interreg III Programme and British Waterways and features:

• Two acres of new habitat pools connected to the Montgomery Canal;
• A circular heritage walk around the reserve, with towpath access at Aston Locks;
• New information boards at Aston Top Lock and along the canal towpath.

The event has been arranged by Montgomery Canal Partnership, the umbrella group tasked with promoting the canal’s sustainable restoration.

British Waterways' project manager, Stephen Lees, said the event would have a firm community focus, reflecting the partnership values which have delivered so much of the restoration to date.

"By putting local children at the heart of the event we are showcasing this beautiful waterway to the next generation of visitors," said Mr Lees.

"Following the ceremony, on Friday 5 September, guests are invited to Llanymynech Heritage Area at 12.30pm for lunch and a short presentation on the potential of future canal restoration," he added.

Find out more about waterway wildlife

Take part in British Waterways’ 2008 National Wildlife Survey