Endangered birds flock to village wetlands

Local wildlife enthusiast David Hindle has spoken out on the crucial importance of Grimsargh Wetlands after recording 540 of the curved beaked Curlew roosting at the site of the former reservoirs.

A question mark hangs over the future of the nature area off Preston Road after plans to build homes on part of the land and provide financial security for the reserve were rejected by Preston City Council in November.

The Grimsargh parish councillor said the figures demonstrated the ‘significant importance’ of the site owned by United Utilities.

Coun Hindle said: “These birds need a safe, resting roosting site and obviously have found that on the wetlands.

“The Curlew is suffering a devastating decline and to see the birds roosting in this number is unprecedented and indicates the significant importance of the wetlands .”

United Utilities, which owns the site, has yet to re-submit a plan after being refused permission due to the lack of affordable housing.