Work to start on turning former farm into reserve

Work to turn a former Surrey farm into a nature reserve is due to start this month, a council said.

Burpham Court Farm, a 45.9-hectare green space along the River Wey, will be "transformed into a thriving wildlife haven", according to Guildford Borough Council.

The council is regenerating the surrounding area as part of a regeneration project named the Weyside Urban Village including 1,550 homes.

Lead councillor for regeneration and economic development, Tom Hunt, said a "key focus" of the regeneration plans was the creation of new green spaces.

He added: "These spaces have been designed to enhance biodiversity and provide accessible outdoor areas for the community.

"Equal in size to around 60 football pitches, Burpham Court Farm Nature Reserve will offer a stunning landscape, rich in wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, walkers, and families."

A council spokesperson said the work was expected to take several months.

The site, formerly a farm and inaccessible to the public, has the River Wey running through it.

A 1.6-mile (2.5km) circular walking trail, four new pedestrian entrances, a free car park for visitors, wildflower meadows, and new picnic areas are all part of the plans.

The council's application to relocate allotments to a green belt site north of the industrial estate as part of the redevelopment plans was previously agreed.

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