A significant accessibility upgrade has been completed at a cherished Northumberland nature reserve, with a brand-new ramp now serving visitors to a popular wildlife watching hide.
Funding from Community Lottery Supports Vital Conservation Work
The 50-metre access ramp leading to the hide at the Northumberland Wildlife Trust's Cresswell Pond reserve, situated within the Druridge Bay area, has undergone a complete replacement. This essential project was made possible through generous funding provided by players of the People's Postcode Lottery.
The previous ramp had been in service for over two decades and, despite undergoing multiple repairs in recent years, had reached a point where a full replacement was deemed necessary for safety and longevity.
Local Expertise Delivers Swift Transformation
The construction work was carried out efficiently over a five-day period by ADM Joinery, a skilled local company based in the region. This investment in local business underscores the community-focused nature of the project.
Cresswell Pond: A Coastal Gem for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Located approximately 1.5 kilometres north of Cresswell Village, the Cresswell Pond reserve is celebrated for its pristine beach, which has earned a prestigious Quality Coast Award and features in the renowned Good Beach Guide. The reserve attracts more than 6,000 visitors annually.
The pond itself is a fascinating ecological feature, formed by subsidence from historical, collapsed mine workings. Its unique position, connected to the sea, creates a brackish water environment—a mix of fresh and salt water—that serves as an exceptional feeding ground for numerous bird species.
A Crucial Hub for Migratory and Resident Birds
This habitat is particularly bustling during the spring and autumn migration periods, when rare birds frequently stop over on their journeys to warmer climates. Since 2011, the site has gained recognition as one of the UK's most northerly breeding grounds for avocets, which nest along the shoreline.
The area regularly hosts large congregations of waterfowl, with occasional sightings of greylag and pink-footed geese. To the south of the main pond, two smaller freshwater ponds provide sanctuary for resident populations of moorhens and coots, offering vital resting spots for migrating birds.
Enhanced Viewing Opportunities from the Improved Hide
From the vantage point of the newly upgraded hide, visitors can now enjoy comfortable and accessible viewing of a diverse array of wildlife. Species commonly observed include:
- Avocets
- Barn owls
- Coots
- Gadwalls
- Greylag geese
- Pink-footed geese
- Pochards
- Teals
- Tree sparrows
- Yellowhammers
- Wigeon
Lucky observers might even catch a glimpse of the occasional otter moving through the area.
Manager Highlights Importance of Sustainable Investment
Alex Lister, the Druridge Bay landscapes manager for Northumberland Wildlife Trust, commented on the project's significance: "Access structures such as this one are always expensive, so it's great that support from players of People's Postcode Lottery has enabled us to replace the old one rather than repair it again. This represents a sustainable investment in the reserve's future and ensures continued access for all visitors to enjoy this spectacular wildlife haven."
This enhancement not only improves the visitor experience but also supports the broader conservation and educational mission of the reserve, ensuring it remains a welcoming and accessible destination for years to come.
