Wetlands site to be restored thanks to cash boost

WWT Martin Mere provides a "safe sanctuary" for over 100,000 wetland birds, says reserve manager Louise Greenwood

A key wetland centre which has degraded due to a lack of money is being restored thanks to a funding boost.

Martin Mere Wetland Centre in Burscough, Lancashire, a Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) reserve, aims to use the money to improve the habitat for rare and endangered species, wetland grassland and reedbeds, boost flood resilience and water quality.

The three-year project is being funded by the CMA CGM Group, maritime, a land, air, and logistics solutions firm, with UK staff also helping do some of the work.

John Blessington, of CMA CGM, said it was "incredibly proud" to be funding the revamp of the site which attracts 200,000 visitors a year.

Martin Mere which opened to the public in 1975 is a designated SSSI (site of special scientific interest), an SPA (special protection area) and a Ramsar Site (a wetland site designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention).

However, it said a lack of funding and deteriorating water quality had degraded the wildlife habitat and significantly reduced its biodiversity.

The restoration of the 600-acre (2.4 sq km) site will include:

• lowland wet grassland and reedbed restoration and cutting and removing invasive vegetation and ditch renovation

• water quality improvement by installing new pumps, tilting weirs and sluices, and

• replacing tracks, installing new benches and signage to create "access for all".

The 600-acre site has been open to the public since 1975

Staff at CMA CGM UK, which has its head office in Liverpool, will also be involved in volunteering.

Some employees have already taken part in scrub clearance and rebuilding hedges.

The partnership with WWT is part of the firm's commitment to support large-scale environmental initiatives that boost biodiversity .

Mr Blessington said: "Wetlands are vital to help fight the climate and biodiversity crises.

"The centre is known to many of our staff who have fond memories of school trips there and they are looking forward to learning more and being part of the site's transformation."

Louise Greenwood, reserve manager at WWT Martin Mere, said: "Each year, our wetlands at WWT Martin Mere provide a safe sanctuary for over 100,000 wetland birds and give visitors a chance to see this breathtaking wildlife up close.

"We're delighted to welcome CMA CGM as a partner to join us on our mission to restore and protect these vital habitats and make sure more people can connect with nature and appreciate its wonders."