Huntingdonshire District Council has given the green light to a landmark project that will see Paxton Pits Nature Reserve expand from 78 to around 280 hectares – making it one of the largest reserves in Cambridgeshire.
The decision, agreed at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday (16 September), allows officers to sign leases for land next to the existing site. As gravel extraction and restoration work is completed, the land will transfer in phases to the reserve, with a new lease running until 2087.
The expansion will transform the reserve with three new lakes, three islands for wading birds, reedbeds, wildflower meadows, wet woodland and scrub habitats, while also bringing the remaining 60% of the Site of Special Scientific Interest into long-term protection.
For visitors, the plans mean 27 kilometres of footpaths, 8.4 kilometres of cycleways, and new bird hides and viewpoints, creating one of the most accessible green spaces in the county, right on the doorstep of St Neots.
Councillor Julie Kerr, Executive Councillor for Parks and Countryside, said:
“This is a great opportunity for residents and wildlife in Huntingdonshire. The extension of Paxton Pits not only secures long-term protection of important habitats, but it also gives our residents and visitors a spectacular green space to enjoy for decades to come.”
The project is the result of a partnership between Holcim UK, Cambridgeshire County Council, Huntingdonshire District Council, the Friends of Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, landowners and the local community.
Drink driver caught more than three times over the limit in Longstanton
A1 Lorry Fire Near Buckden Continues as Crews Work to Control Fire In Trailer
Payroll numbers fall slightly in Huntingdonshire and Bedford, but wages rise
Bedfordshire Women Share Experiences as Spiking Awareness Week Begins
A1 Northbound Closed at Buckden After Lorry Fire – Long Delays Reported
Comments
Add a comment