A MASSIVE bird reserve being created could transform the economy, it is being predicted.
More than 100,000 people a year are expected to visit the RSPB's £4m Saltholme reserve, near Billingham, east Cleveland, which will open next year.
Project manager Kevin Bayes said: "From our point of view, it is a massive opportunity firstly to get to know the local community better and also to help the whole regeneration process of that area.
"If we are successful, over £1m a year will come into the local economy with tourism spend."
He made his forecast as the RSPB and the Teesside Environmental Trust signed an agreement that will unite the partners for the next 100 years, underwriting the project -the largest of its kind in the North of England -for future generations. Saltholme is expected to open to visitors in the late summer next year.
Progress on the site can be followed at www.rspb.org.uk/ saltholme
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