Scheme to boost wildlife at sewage treatment sites

A water firm has launched a project aiming to improve four wildlife habitats close to wastewater treatment sites in Barnsley.

Ponds are to be created and new trees planted on land close to treatment works in Lundwood, Worsbrough, Wombwell, and Darton, Yorkshire Water said.

The firm said the schemes would improve conditions for amphibians, dragonflies and wading birds and help woodland wildlife such as the endangered willow tit.

A £13m project to reduce the amount of phosphorus in treated wastewater returned to the River Dearne had started at the four locations, it added.

Ahead of the September start date for the wildlife restoration schemes, surveys would gather information on species already residing in the four habitats.

Richard Hampshire, Yorkshire Water nature reserve warden, said it was important to "go beyond" improving wastewater treatment sites and "do what we can to support wildlife in the area too".

"We’re pleased to be beginning this important work in partnership with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust," Mr Hampshire said.

Mike Winstanley, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust regional manager, said: “We will create new ponds for dragonflies and amphibians whilst also planting trees to encourage a greater diversity of species and create habitat for woodland wildlife.

"Our work with Yorkshire Water provides an exciting opportunity to create more spaces for nature in post-industrial and more urbanised areas."

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