A wildlife windfall (From Barry And District News)

A wildlife windfall

CADOXTON ponds in Barry have been awarded more than 50,000 of European cash to make the area one of the most important for conservation in the Vale of Glamorgan.

The Objective Two money, which came via the European Regional Development Fund, will be used to reshape the ponds into a fishing amenity, construct pathways and fishing platforms and to build an eco-study centre.

The ponds are on land belonging to Dow Corning, and in the past, the site has been targeted by vandals and trespassers.

The restoration project is being led by a three-way partnership - Dow Corning, Glamorgan Anglers and Environment Agency Wales - with expert help from the Wildlife Trust South and West Wales.

Managing director of Dow Corning, Margaret Matthews, said: "This is the largest community environmental project we have ever undertaken.

"We believe that the restoration will create an area that will benefit everyone who lives and works in the community while also protecting its beauty for future generations to enjoy."

A recent flora and fauna survey of the area, carried out by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, showed the site is home to a variety of important species.

These include the peregrine falcon, which is afforded full protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, the harvest mouse, which has become increasingly rare within the county, and the reed sweet grass.

Secretary of state for Wales Peter Hain backs the project.

He said: "This is a superb example of partnership between a major international investor in Wales, environmental organisations, the local community and anglers.

"Angling is a major recreational growth area and it is particularly important that young people are encouraged to enjoy the sport and to learn a love of nature and the countryside around them.

"In taking forward this exciting project, Dow Corning is showing that modern industry can exist side by side with local communities to create a better environment."