AN AMBITIOUS bid to breathe new life into a Bordon nature reserve will be realised thanks to a major grant.

East Hampshire District Council have given £98,500 in developer contributions to the Deadwater Valley Trust to install a new boardwalk around Knox Pond.

New stone pathways and drainage improvements will also be made with work starting on the project in spring 2024.

The pond area was somewhat neglected and unloved until tree-felling and dredging took place early this year.

The resulting increase in natural light and removal of excess silt and mud should lead to more invertebrates and a greater biodiversity at the beauty spot.

The new wider boardwalk is part of the second and final phase of the project and will replace one which is 20 years old and in a poor state of repair.

It will also prevent erosion around the banks and will be constructed of inert materials to prevent contamination.

The DVT had to bid for the Section 106 funding so Jamie Cummins, senior countryside ranger at the Trust, was thrilled the council agreed to the full sum.

He said: “It’s fantastic news that East Hampshire District Council have awarded the full amount we applied for to complete the Knox Pond improvement project.

“This will mean we can finally upgrade the access around the pond and the activity platforms.

“A mixture of a stone path and a wooden boardwalk will mean more people will be able to safely access and enjoy this valuable wildlife and local amenity.”