Campaigners march in call for urban wetland

In Hereford, a large group of people gathered to march for the creation of an urban wetland in the city center. This event was part of a larger 'day of action' organized by the Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, which aims to restore local rivers and streams. Jamie Audsley, the CEO of the Wildlife Trust, expressed that supporters are eager to establish a nature reserve that would enhance Hereford's identity as a 'river city'. The march began at the bull statue in High Town and proceeded to the old Essex Arms sports ground, a site that the Wildlife Trust hopes to convert into a wetland nature reserve. The area in question spans three acres and is owned by the Herefordshire Council. Campaigners have been advocating for this wetland for six years, and it was included in the local plan of the previous administration. Mr. Audsley shared his vision, stating, 'We would see warblers, we would see buntings, we would see kingfishers, we would see wonderful ducks, geese – all the things that we might commonly see on our rivers and our streams, our brooks – that are really vital at the heart of our city. ' The estimated cost of the project could reach millions of pounds. Christine Price, the CEO of Healthwatch Herefordshire, believes that investing in this wetland is worthwhile. She noted, 'This can really help people’s wellbeing by connecting with nature, getting out from your day-to-day, perhaps connecting with other friends and family and other people enjoying this space. ' However, not everyone supports the idea. One man, who has been living at the site, expressed his concerns through an online translator, saying, 'If I have to, I will leave, but it’s a pity because I’ve put a lot of work into this site. ' The campaigners are hopeful that a plan for the wetland will be in place by the middle of next year.