Work on a major project is nearing completion at Monkmoor Meadows to improve access and habitat to this popular riverside area alongside the River Severn to the east of Shrewsbury.
Shrewsbury Town Council has teamed up with Shropshire Wildlife Trust, and with funding from the European Regional Development Fund, this project will see the construction of several access features, including paths, a bridge and a picnic area in addition to three bankside structures for the public to use.
Councillor Kevin Pardy, Chairman of the Town Council’s recreation and leisure committee said: “This is a large project which has taken a while to come to fruition. The work will take place on land alongside the river and improve the path and access from Coseley Avenue and Monkmoor Lane, allowing wheelchair users to have access to Abbots Wood Day Centre, amongst others.”
Matt Wilcoxon, countryside and greenspace manager for the Town Council, added: “As part of this Freshwater First Programme, we will be installing new fishing pegs and a new canoe ramp, as well as creating wildlife habitats through the excavation of wetland scrapes on the site.
“We will also be planting more hedgerow plants, trees and we will include enhancements to create new seasonal wetland areas, which will be a great benefit for our local wildlife.”
The area remained open to the public during the works, but some areas were fenced off where the work was taking place.
The work was undertaken by Lowther Forestry Limited.
Councillor Mrs Pam Moseley, Ward Member for Monkmoor, added: “I am delighted that this work is underway, and when completed, this riverside area will have much improved facilities for local residents, including disabled access, seating, paths, new planting and better access to the river for anglers and canoeists. The works to this beautiful area will benefit the local community for many years to come.”
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Published: 05 November 2020