Construction is set to commence next month on the Kennet Valley Wetland Reserve, a £1.5m development located on approximately 16 hectares of land at Undy’s Meadow on Hungerford’s northern edge, adjacent to the River Kennet. The Town and Manor of Hungerford, a charity responsible for organizing the town’s annual Tutti Day celebrations, is spearheading the initiative.
According to Kate Edwards of the charity, the reserve will function as a dedicated wildlife sanctuary with designated seating areas, walking paths, and boardwalks for visitors. The design prioritizes wildlife observation, with expectations that the site will attract various bird species including willow warblers, grasshopper warblers, and wetland birds. The facility is intended to provide a quiet space where visitors can experience the natural environment.
Construction activities are scheduled to occur between September and December, with specific timing constraints based on environmental considerations. Work cannot begin before September due to nesting birds, and must conclude by December to avoid complications from wet ground conditions. The initial phase, encompassing landscape development, pathways, and boardwalks, is projected to be completed by the following summer.
Edwards noted that the project has received substantial community backing. The initiative aims to transform the currently unmanaged meadowland into a managed natural area that will serve both wildlife conservation and public recreation purposes.
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