New local nature reserve to be named in Telford

Dawley Pools and Pit Mounds is one of a number of proposed local nature reserves, and will connect a network of sites including Lightmoor to the west and Rough Park to the south creating a ‘green corridor’.

The area will include wooded pit mounds and pools including Castle Pool and The Dandy to the north, a collection of pools to the south including Wide Waters and Furnace Pools and Sprynge Pool to the south west.

It will bring the final total of local nature reserves in Telford up to 15.

Councillor John Minor, cabinet member for green spaces and parks, said: “Who doesn’t enjoy a stroll in beautiful landscape? This area of Dawley is in the perfect location for a reserve, with lots of wildlife and peaceful areas for walking and fishing with easy access for residents living nearby.

“We are looking forward to working with different groups to make sure residents get as much benefit from this reserve as possible.”

Being a local nature reserve means the land’s natural features will be protected from development along with the diverse and thriving populations of bats, great crested newts and a rare aquatic plant called mare’s tail, which only grows in this area of the borough.

Dawley Pools and Pit Mounds boasts some hidden beauty spots along the green network. The area was once an area of spoil heaps, clay pits and a hive of industry. Now it provides unique habitats for wildlife and areas of green spaces with peaceful trails.

It will also create opportunities for groups such as the newly established Friends of Dawley Pools, Telford Green Space Partnership and the Telford Woods’ Partnership to provide social, craft and training activities that enrich their lives and boost people’s confidence and wellbeing.

Before a local nature reserves is formally declared, a number of steps must be completed including consultation with Natural England, creating management plans and carrying out legal checks, which can be a lengthy process.

Dawley Pools and Pit Mounds can be accessed from South View Road in Little Dawley in south-west Telford.

Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet will meet on January 3 to officially adopt the reserve.