Sowe Valley
Aiming to protect, enhance and connect local species
The River Sowe offers a wonderful green haven for both people and wildlife - an escape to nature on your doorstep. This project hopes to improve both the green spaces themselves and opportunities for people to enjoy those spaces.
Based on the River Sowe in the east of Coventry, which flows through the wards of Longford, Henley, Wyken, Lower Stoke and Binley and Willenhall, this scheme offers residents the chance to get involved with practical conservation activities, training opportunities, children's natural play and healthy walking.
The Sowe Valley links four nature reserves (including 3 managed by the Trust - Wyken Slough, Stoke Floods and Stonebridge Meadows) and connects communities along its length.
What's happening?
The scheme aims to:
Protect, enhance and connect local populations of species including water voles.
Develop new, appropriate management plans for five key sites along the Sowe to improve biodiversity.
Manage non-native species including the removal of Himalayan balsam and mink monitoring and control (in association with the Coventry Water Vole Project).
Engage with schools to encourage them to utilise the river valley within their curriculum.
Promote access to and enjoyment of the Sowe Valley.
Encourage local residents to access, enjoy and use the green space on their doorstep through activities, events and walks.
Start date: 2009
Trust reserves within the scheme
Wyken Slough, Stoke Floods and Stonebridge Meadows
This scheme is helping species including...
Otter, water vole, wetland birds
This scheme is also...
Helping wildlife adapt to climate change, improving access for people, providing recreational opportunities, volunteering opportunities and skills training
Partners
Natural England, Environment Agency, local authorities, Bovis Homes, Westbury Partnerships, Keepmoat Homes
To find out more
Email: enquiries@wkwt.org.uk | Tel: 024 7630 2912 | Sowe Valley
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