Pathways to the future for RSPB Old Moor
We are delighted to be able to share that Old Moor is benefiting from improvements to infrastructure thanks to a £50,000 grant from FCC Communities Foundation.
The money will be used to resurface pathways along the Green Lane part of the reserve to make it fully accessible, and to create a new wildlife viewing bridge for visitors to enjoy the sights and species at RSPB Old Moor. This will also include new seating areas and interpretation boards to teach visitors about the site and its history.
Jayne Wood, project manager at RSPB Old Moor, believes the improvements will make a huge difference to the visitor experience.
“This project will provide a real boost to Old Moor and the local community. It’s fantastic that FCC Communities Foundation has awarded us this money and we’re really looking forward to Green Lane taking shape over the coming months.
“The current facilities are suitable for our core audience of experienced birdwatchers and nature photographers, but do not meet the needs of new audiences – people who are new to wildlife watching, families with children, and less mobile people – who tend to avoid Green Lane.”
FCC Communities Foundation is a not-for-profit business that awards grants for community projects through the Landfill Communities Fund.
Penny Horne, spokesperson for FCC Communities Foundation, says: “We’re delighted to be supporting the RSPB Old Moor nature reserve: Pathways to Nature project and pleased our funding will improve the access and overall visitor experience to this beautiful site. FCC Communities Foundation is always happy to consider grant applications for projects that make a difference to local communities and we’re really looking forward to seeing this one take shape soon.”
Jayne Wood hopes “the new infrastructure will help us provide more volunteering opportunities and nature-themed activities, including guided walks, self-guided nature trails, and practical reserve management.”
The path has been re-opened with a temporary surface, and will be top-dressed in the spring when conditions improve.
New Green Lane Path with temporary surface - Photo J Mayston