Charity sets outs nature 'paradise' plan

RSPB Geltsdale reserve manager Ian Ryding wants to "create a landscape that sings with life"

A vision for a nature "paradise" has been set out by conservation charity RSPB England.

It purchased the remaining land at RSPB Geltsdale in Cumbria in November, describing it as a "landmark step in safeguarding one of the most significant upland nature reserves".

It now plans to plant thousands more native trees, install new dams and wetlands and reintroduce rare creatures such as white faced darter, dragonflies and water voles.

Work has already begun to create the "Pennines Paradise" and is expected to take five years, the RSPB said.

Reserve manager Ian Ryding said the plans were "ambitious", adding: "We want to create a landscape that sings with life."

The area is home to a thriving black grouse population

RSPB plans include:

• Installing dams to stabilise and rejuvenate peatlands, to store carbon and retain water

• Creating wildflower hay meadows with orchids, lady's mantle and yellow rattle to support pollinators

• Plant thousands of native trees, such as aspen, downy birch and rowan, and protect saplings with tree guards

• Encouraging osprey to breed on the reserve using new platforms

• Restoring watercourses like Howgill Beck to meander naturally, slowing the flow of water and creating pools for various animals and plants

The North Pennines, where RSPB Geltsdale is located, is home to 80% of England's black grouse.

The RSPB completed the purchase of the final third of the Tarnhouse Farm estate and sporting rights across the whole of Geltsdale in November.

Funding to secure the land was provided through legacies, philanthropy and the Omaze house draw, the charity said.