Rethink over new canal nature reserves

Planners behind two new nature reserves either side of Welshpool are having to rethink after facing a couple of issues that are impacting progress.

At the latest monthly full Town Council meeting, councillors were provided with an update from Powys County Council and the Canal & River Trust over the millions of pounds-worth of work that will eventually lead to Welshpool being connected to the national canal network.

It is hoped that it will bring in a tourism bonanza to the area, and is largely supported locally, but plans are having to be reworked.

The first glitch reported was over a proposed new 240m path that will re-direct visitors at the new reserve close to the Wern towards a farm.

Michelle Blakemore, from the farm, said that while she was “largely in support” of the reserve, she was concerned that the new right-of-way would encourage trespasses onto their adjacent land and cause a health and safety issue.

Officers agreed there was a problem and propose a new path that will run through the middle of the reserve, which is being created to encourage additional aquatic habitat. They said there would be no parking at the site as it is about five minutes from the Wern clay pits site which also has picnic benches.

The new plans will be put through to Powys County Council for planning approval, with Welshpool Town Council urging that Ms Blakemore’s concerns be taken on board and highlighted when the final decision is made.

Officers then shared their second issue over the proposed Red Lane Reserve planned for the canal area at the bottom of the road leading up to Powis Castle.

They stated initial designs had been drawn up, but due to the condition of the land for the proposed site, it may not be suitable and would cost too much top develop.

“We’re currently looking for a new site for that reserve,” the Canal & River Trust presenter stated, adding that consultants were “looking further afield for sites which provide good aquatic habitat”.

The project developers are having to provide the additional sites due to the canal being designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) – given to the most important places in the UK for wildlife that are also of international significance.

This is due to the presence of Britain's largest and most extensive population of the internationally rare Floating Water-plantain, as well as a habitat for other rare plants such as Grass-wrack Pondweed.

Town councillors warmly welcomed the presentation with Cllr Billy Spencer calling it “absolutely amazing” and asked for regular updates to be provided as the project continues.