Yorkshire Wildlife Trust has announced a £225,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to develop plans for enhancing its flagship nature reserve sites. The project aims to make these reserves more sustainable, accessible, and inspiring for all visitors.
Flagship Reserves Across Yorkshire
The four flagship reserves—Spurn, Potteric Carr, North Cave Wetlands, and Stirley—span from Huddersfield to Doncaster and Spurn Point. They offer exceptional wildlife-watching opportunities, from the wild shores of Spurn Point to the rich biodiversity at Potteric Carr. These sites are vital for nature and serve as green spaces for local communities.
Developing a 'Greenprint' Framework
The grant will support the creation of a 'Greenprint' framework to model nature's recovery and enhance community green spaces. The focus will be on sustainability, accessibility, and fostering community action through the #TeamWilder initiative.
Rachael Bice, CEO of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, said: "This award is game-changing. It offers a unique opportunity to develop our flagship reserves so they can inspire, educate, and provide wonderful wildlife experiences for more people in sustainable spaces."
Helen Feathertone, Director for England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, added: "We are delighted to fund this project in Yorkshire Wildlife Trust's 80th year. Supporting nature recovery and accessibility aligns with our priorities, thanks to National Lottery players."
The Trust has appointed a Visitor Destination Development Manager to lead the project. Over the next 18 months, they will create the greenprint and seek further funding to realise their ambitions.
