Professor Christian Dunn is one of the co-founders of the project and Bangor University students have been involved with developing the plans and building-up several years of baseline data on the site.
“It’s hugely rewarding to see Chester Wetland reach the planning stage,” said Professor Dunn.
“Wetlands are nature’s superheroes when it comes to increasing biodiversity, managing water, reducing pollution and storing carbon. But they’re often overlooked and people don’t think about exploring them.
“The Chester Wetland will bring a mosaic of different wetland habitats right into Chester’s favourite park so that everyone can enjoy them.”
“Bangor University students have been central to this project - carrying out ecological surveys, water-quality monitoring and hydrological modelling that underpin the design,” Professor Dunn added.
Chester Wetland has the backing of Chester Zoo as part of its Networks for Nature programme, and Professor Dunn recently presented the plans at the zoo’s “Nature Fest”.
Other partners supporting the scheme include Cheshire West and Chester Council, The Land Trust, Friends of Countess of Chester Country Park, the Environment Agency and environmental consultancy firm, Binnies UK.
Bangor University offers various degrees for students interested in learning about the creation and management of natural ecosystems – visit bangor.ac.uk/sens for more information.
