Plans for 'super' nature reserve at beauty spot

The Stiperstones nature reserve on the border of England and Wales could be expanded

Residents are being asked to share their views on plans for a so-called super nature reserve on the England-Wales border.

Proposals are being floated to extend the existing Stiperstones National Nature Reserve in Shropshire by up to 5,000 hectares (20 sq miles).

The reserve is made up of a wild landscape of uplands, lowlands and woodland that attracts birds and rare wildlife.

Natural England wants to incorporate surrounding land and make the area bigger.

The body has asked people living nearby to share their thoughts on the idea.

A public drop-in session will take place between 18:00 and 21:00 GMT on Wednesday 7 February at the village hall in Snailbeach.

The area is known for its unique rock formations overlooking the landscape

Emma Johnson, deputy director for Natural England in the West Midlands, said there was a great opportunity to create a better and bigger place for people and wildlife.

She claimed a more joined-up approach would help soak up huge amounts of carbon and reduce flooding downstream.

"A super national nature reserve joining up land with partners would be so beneficial," she said.

"There’ll be lots of information about the proposal. We really want to hear what people think.”

The Stiperstones will be one of the King's Series of national nature reserves which was launched last year to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III.