| Date -04 Mar 2008 | Return to previous page |
A number of improvements have been carried out at Elgin’s increasingly popular Wards wetlands and wildlife site.
Moray Council and Scottish Natural Heritage have jointly funded the work, which includes the construction of a pond-dipping platform from which members of the public can discover what aquatic life lurks beneath the water surface.
Three seats have also been installed at strategic intervals along the path for the benefit of the less able and those who prefer to sit for a few minutes and enjoy the sights and sounds of the area.
New information panels and safety signs have also been erected around the site, which has recently gained a certificate of commendation in the RSPB/CIWEM Living Wetlands award scheme.
The award is in recognition of the ongoing development and management of the Wards and for future plans to develop the area as an environmental education resource.
The Wards is an area of boggy land lying between Elgin and New Elgin immediately to the south of the Aberdeen-Inverness railway line.
It is an important area of green space right in the heart of Elgin and despite its urban setting attracts a host of wildlife.
Work on improving access has been going on for several years and has included the creation of an all-abilities interpretation trail around the edge of the site and the latest improvements have been designed to enhance the experience for visitors and to make the site more user-friendly.
Members of the public have the opportunity this weekend to become involved in confirming the Wards as a community asset by taking part in a litter clean-up.
It will take place on Saturday (March 8) from 2pm to 4pm and volunteers should meet at the nearby Elgin Scout Hut. Gloves and bags will be provided and tea, coffee and snacks will be laid on afterwards.
During the clean-up Moray Council’s countryside ranger, Doug Hawkes, will be on hand to help try out the pond-dipping platform and answer questions about the Wards and its wildlife.