The team behind the Cockshut Stream Restoration in Lewes is celebrating this week after the project scooped two prestigious awards.
Located within Lewes Brooks, the restoration saw the realignment of the Cockshut chalk stream and the creation of six hectares of wetland.
The area has quickly become an oasis for wildlife and hugely popular with local residents.
Nominated in two categories in the South Downs National Park 2024 Design Awards, the Cockshut Stream Restoration was first in the Landscape Category and also received the coveted People’s Choice Award, which was voted for by members of the public.
The partners behind the new wetland include Lewes District Council, Ouse and Adur Rivers Trust and Lewes Railway Land Wildlife Trust.
Funding for the project was provided by South Downs National Park Authority, Veolia Environmental Trust and Lewes District Council.
Councillor Emily O’Brien, Cabinet Member for Climate, Nature and Food Systems, said:
“I am thrilled that the vision, hard work and dedication of all those behind this stunning restoration project has been recognised in this way.
“We all know that the levels of nature depletion in the UK are stark, so to see this wetland already attracting such a wide range of wildlife and native plants, is incredibly exciting for anyone with an interest in improving biodiversity.”
Herons, kingfishers, egret, snipe and marsh harriers are among the many birds seen visiting the wetland, while toads, sticklebacks, eels and frogs can be spotted in the ponds.
Grass snakes use the reedy ditches and many species of dragonfly have been seen in the meadow and riverbanks.
Peter King, Director of the Ouse and Adur Rivers Trust, said:
“We're delighted that the project has been recognised for it's place in the National Park but also that so many people are getting pleasure from it and thank them for taking the time to vote
“The project showcases the power of partnership working in transforming landscapes into biodiversity hotspots and were looking forward to delivering more across the area.”
The wetland is open to visitors who can enjoy all its natural beauty thanks to raised walkways and bridges giving access around the entire site.
Dog walkers are reminded to keep dogs on a lead.
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