Improvements at Chapelfield Nature Reserve

Monday, 14 August 2023 08:45

By David Murphy

Bury Council are working alongside Community Interest Company Proffitts – Investing in Communitieson a project to improve the Chapelfield Nature Reserve in Bury.

Plans include pathway and access improvements, the installation of a boardwalk to cover boggy walkways, treating invasive Japanese Knotweed, and undertaking tree works across the site. There are also plans to repair culverts and coping section along the Brook, remove debris, plant more fruit trees in the orchard, and make the entranceways more welcoming to visitors.

Cllr Alan Quinn, Cabinet Member for the Environment, Climate Change and Operations, said, ‘’Chapelfield Nature Reserve is a beautiful space, and we’re thrilled that the Greater Manchester Environment Fund is helping us fund some of the changes needed on site. We want to make sure that nature can thrive in Chapelfield, and we want to give the communities close by a wonderful, outdoor space they can spend lots of time in.’’

Before the masterplan for the nature reserve was finalised, local residents and visitors were given the opportunity to share ideas and suggestions for enhancing the area. Martin Proffitt from Proffitts, said “We know that this is a place that matters to people, and we’ve had some great suggestions for the nature reserve that would make the site easier to navigate, protect native plants and shrubs, and attract more wildlife into the space too. Our parks, nature reserves and green spaces are highly valued, and we’re delighted we can make the changes needed to keep them accessible for everyone.’’

Although the plan involves upgrades across the Local Nature Reserve, a key aim is to minimise any environmental impacts and keep the public space as natural as possible. More information and a copy of the plan and survey can be found here: http://www.proffittscic.com/community-projects/chapelfield-nature-reserve/

Work on site is out to tender at present but is expected to last approximately 12 weeks.

If you would like more information, please email communities@proffittscic.com