VOLUNTEERS are needed to help create a wildlife haven.
People in the Gaunless Valley, near Bishop Auckland, are being urged to help plant reed beds and meadow flowers at the newly-created wetlands between West Auckland and Ramshaw.
Accessing Wetlands and Beyond is an Environment Agency project which aims to improve the quality of life of communities in West Auckland and Ramshaw by enhancing the environment.
It is part of the English Nature-led Mineral Valleys project and is receiving more than £90,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Environment Agency biodiversity team leader Jim Heslop said: "We have a major task ahead of us, but the reward will be in seeing the land transformed into an area that benefits wildlife and the community.
The site is close to the Spring Mill Wildlife dam, which was built to protect nearby communities that were devastated by floods in 2000.
Plans for the site include a 2.4km path which will run past the wetland area and follow the old Haggerleases railway line, a nature trail and information posts.
The reed bed planting will take place during a weekend in early June.
Anyone interested in getting involved in the project can call 2D, Support for the Voluntary and Community Sector on (01388) 762220.
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