Hedging to be planted along Lichfield Canal to help improve biodiversity
A row of new hedging is being planted along the line of the Lichfield Canal project thanks to funding from South Staffs Water.
The hedging is the first phase of a planting scheme, by Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, which will introduce new habitats along Falkland Road, following the route of the canal.
It is being funded through the South Staffs Water PEBBLE Fund – Projects that Explore Biodiversity Benefits in the Local Environment.
Chris Bull, chair and environment director at Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust said: “We’re so grateful to South Staffs Water for this grant.
“It means we can quickly establish the hedging along this section of the canal, so that it starts to provide biodiversity benefits as soon as possible.
“Sadly, we have been somewhat delayed by COVID restrictions but we hope to get back on track as soon as we can and continue to enhance the green corridor of the canal route.”
Caroline Cooper, strategy and regulation director at South Staffs Water, said: “We want to protect and enhance the environment for our customers, communities and for future generations.
“Our PEBBLE fund aims to do that, by supporting existing community groups and charities, which are already working hard to increase the variety of natural living things.
“Hedges provide important ecosystems, as well as shelter and protection for other plants and animals, so we’re really happy to be supporting the canal trust’s project.”
The Lichfield Canal and Hatherton Canal Restoration Restoration Trust was formed in 1988 and the Lichfield section covers a distance of just over seven miles through 30 locks from Ogley Junction on the Birmingham Canal Navigations to Huddlesford Junction on the Coventry Canal.
The South Staffs Water PEBBLE fund offers funding of up to £10,000 to projects will improve, restore or create habitat and have a community benefit.
For more information visit www.south-staffs-water.co.uk/pebble
