WORK to transform meadows into a new community wetland are progressing well, according to Wychavon District Council.

Contractors using specialist earth moving equipment have created a series of pools, new ditches and scrapes at Avon Meadows in Pershore which, when planted with reeds, will attract a variety of wildlife and filter surface water from the neighbouring built-up area before it enters the river Avon.

The project, which is being led by Wychavon in partnership with Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, Pershore Market Town Partnership and the Severn and Avon Vales Wetland Partnership, was consulted in June and work started at the beginning of September.

Heritage manager Jim Burgin said: “We’re really pleased that this project is progressing well.

“We are doing lots of consultation with local residents and schools to make sure they’re getting a wetland area that serves their community, protects our environment and educates everyone on what a wetland can achieve.

“So far everything is running to plan.”

The planting of the reeds will be carried out as a community event in the spring.

Anyone who would like to get involved in the project should contact Susanne Hiscock at Wychavon on 01386 565180.

Alternatively, you can contact her by sending an e-mail to susanne.hiscock@wychavon.gov.uk