South Derbyshire District Council - Coton Park Local Nature Reserve

The site on which the nature area now sits is an area of reclaimed and landscaped land formerly used as a coal stacking yard. When operations ceased, the area was subject to restoration works sometime during the late 1990's.

As a result of these works the site was restored to a mosaic of habitats, with wetland habitat providing a particular area of interest. Several species of locally rare or uncommon birds and plants have been recorded here and in 2005 the nature conservation interest of the site was formally recognised by its designation as a Local Wildlife Site.

It covers just over 10 hectares, and comprises areas of recently planted broad leaved woodland, restored agricultural pasture land, new hedges, areas of open water, ditches, reedbed, swamp, scrub and mature trees.

The Derbyshire Wildlife Trust has produced a Management Plan for the site which details an annual maintenance regime to protect and enhance existing habitats.

A Management Advisory Group, comprising representation from the site owners, the local community, conservation organisations and other interested individuals and organisations is being set up to deliver the management plan.

For the local community the site provides an opportunity for practical involvement in an environmental project, new recreational access and an educational resource. The 'Friends of Coton Park' are working with South Derbyshire District Council, Groundwork Derby & Derbyshire and the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust to deliver a programme of guided walks, practical action days and educational visits.

Forthcoming Events

Great Crested Newt Survey at Coton Local Nature Reserve on Friday 27th April. Meet at the car park off Coton Road (at the Badgers Hollow Recreation Ground) at 8.30pm for a torchlight search for these protected species! Event organised by Marion Farrell, Groundwork Derby & Derbyshire. Tel: 01773 539 434 or 07800 752 259 for more info.

Bat Walk at Coton Local Nature Reserve on Friday 15th June with Alan Wragg of Derbyshire Bat Conservation Group. Meet at the car park off Coton Road (at the Badgers Hollow Recreation Ground) at 9.00pm. Event organised by Marion Farrell, Groundwork Derby & Derbyshire. Tel: 01773 539 434 or 07800 752 259 for more info

page ref: SDDC 431

Coton Park Local Nature Reserve

Forthcoming Events

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