A PROJECT that brings people closer to Taunton’s wildlife, waterways and green spaces is being part-funded by one of the town’s biggest employers.

Somerset Wildlife Trust has secured support from Viridor for the charity’s first urban Living Landscape project – Routes to the River Tone.

Trust chief executive Simon Nash, said: ‘‘Our vision for Taunton is one of a vibrant network of wild spaces, rich in wildlife and valued and supported by local people.

‘‘Building support from communities, partners and local businesses is key to the long-term sustainable management of Taunton’s natural heritage.’’ Tanya Reed, Viridor’s communications manager, said: ‘‘We look forward to seeing all the elements of the project come together and for local communities to enjoy and participate in the experience.’’ Viridor will help develop arts-based town trails planned to inspire people to explore the natural, built and historical aspects of the town.

And staff are taking part in practical volunteering days and learning more about the town’s habitats and wildlife with walks and talks from the trust’s experts.

The project’s manager, Somerset Wildlife Trust’s Nick Tomlinson, said: ‘‘Taunton is blessed with a rich tapestry of interwoven green spaces and waterways, teeming with an amazing variety of wildlife.

‘‘By working to encourage the people who live and work in the town to appreciate the wildlife that lives here too, we hope to help make Taunton a better place for people and for wildlife.’’ Routes to the River Tone is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and, as the lead corporate sponsor, Viridor is providing match funding for the project.

The project aims to engage local people with the wildlife on their doorstep and, with their help, to improve the town’s green spaces and waterways which provide important wildlife habitat for rare species like water vole and four species of bat, including brown long-eared and lesser horseshoe bats.

 

 

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