We’re excited to announce that Inverclyde Council has commissioned Green Action Trust to carry out a range of works at Coves Local Nature Reserve (LNR), which borders Greenock and Gourock.
The project will include path improvements, management of the existing woodland blocks, planting of new woodland areas, removal of invasive and non-native plants, and creation of a species-rich grassland area.
This significant investment will enhance Coves LNR as a great place for people and nature. The project also delivers the objectives of Inverclyde Council’s climate adaptation strategy and aims to address the global and national biodiversity emergency and climate change challenge. Work is due to start mid-February and take place over a period of nine weeks.
When the project has been completed, we’ll post an update here to share the results.
Councillor Michael McCormick, Inverclyde Council’s convener of environment and regeneration, said: “We have so many wonderful natural, outdoor spaces, including the Coves Local Nature Reserve, and it’s important we do all we can to ensure they remain in top condition.
“This significant investment in the site will boost biodiversity and make it even more attractive for residents and visitors in line with the council’s environmental commitments and ambitions to make Inverclyde an even better place to live and for people to visit.”
Mike Batley, Development Officer at Green Action Trust, said: “It is so important to be able to work with local authority partners to bring improvements to local greenspaces so that as many people as possible can continue to enjoy them.
“Project such as this have never been more vital and we are delighted to be helping Inverclyde Council deliver its benefits, in line with the aims of the wider Central Scotland Green Network.”
If you’re local to the area, it’s worth highlighting that there will be some short-term disruption whilst work takes place, but Coves LNR will remain open. Local communities and visitors are asked to be aware of where works are taking place when accessing the reserve.
This project is supported by the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot.
