Credit: Martin Oldham
We're working hard to improve Mere Sands Wood for everyone
We'll post all the latest updates about the wonderful work being undertaken here. For more information please don't hesitate to pay us a visit in the visitor centre, give us a call, or email info@lancswt.org.uk where we'll be happy to help and answer any questions you may have.
With thanks,
Danny and the team at Mere Sands Wood
Work so far...
Jul 24, 2023
The footpaths at Mere Sands Wood are open again, with much more accessible routes for everyone to enjoy on this wonderful nature reserve. It is great to see that many of the areas where work has taken place are already covered in native plants and flowers, and birds and insects hardly noticed the changes. The bat roost is already inhabited with some of our flying mammals and the new Rufford hide is close to opening.
Tim Burrows explains more here
Up and coming...
We're working on improved views of wildlife that will be offered by the new structures along with other benefits. The new screen will be more accessible than the current hide and will allow people to appreciate nature from the water’s edge without disturbing it, whilst retaining the feeling of being in the open air amongst the trees.
The new End Lake platform will restore an excellent point of interest for visitors whilst allowing us to preserve a mature oak tree which was previously having its roots compacted by heavy footfall.
Additionally, we will soon be replacing the last remaining footbridge on-site to improve site safety, access for habitat management and reserve maintenance.
There are currently no path closures in place, however heavey machinery is present onsite, alongside some uneven surfaces - please refer to the below map to see what work is currently ongoing.
Frequently asked questions
Why are we doing this work?
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The existing Marshall Hide and End Lake platform have both performed their use and reached the end of their lifespan, having become unfit for purpose or unsafe, and need to be removed.
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The new screen will provide better views over the lake for watching wildlife and will be more accessible to a range of visitors. It will also be less vulnerable to vandalism.
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The repositioning of End Lake platform will restore access to views over End Lake and will remove pressure from high levels of footfall from the roots of the mature oak tree growing above the platform, thus prolonging its life for the benefit of wildlife.
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The new tern rafts will provide additional bird nesting habitat and a focal point for the view from the new screen.
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Additional work on the newly widened paths will make them as accessible as possible.
Who is carrying out the work?
- Nature Works, LWT’s in house contracts team, are carrying out the works, funded by the Lancashire Environment Fund (LEF).
Does the Trust have permission to do this work?
Natural England have given consent to The Lancashire Wildlife Trust for carrying out this work on Mere Sands Wood, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its geology.
When will the work take place?
- The work will begin this October and will be carried out during the autumn and winter months.
Will paths close during the work?
- We will try to avoid closing paths where possible. However, where work directly affects the main paths, these will have to close temporarily.
Which paths and facilities will be open whilst the work is happening?
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Much of the reserve, its paths and hides will remain open throughout the work and we encourage visitors to explore these areas.
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The car park, café and visitors centre will all still be open as well.
Where can I get information and updates on the work?
- We will provide information and updates on the work, including footpath closures and alternative routes, on our website, social media pages and on site. We will also have staff and volunteers on site to help with any enquires.
Will you disturb wildlife during the works?
- Protecting and promoting wildlife is our primary aim. Therefore, we will be carrying out these works during the autumn and winter months to minimise disturbance to wildlife, particularly breeding birds.