Cotswold Lakes Trust is launching an ambitious £1.5 million appeal over the next five years to help protect the Cotswold Water Park for future generations.
The Cotswold Water park, a network of 180 lakes stretching across 42 square miles, sits north of Swindon on the Wiltshire and Gloucestershire border and attracts around 1 million visitors to the area each year.
The charity’s Executive Chairman, Paul Hazel, says that the success of the Challenge Fund Appeal is essential if the Trust is to continue its vital work in conservation, recreation and education. “We want to ensure that the Cotswold Water Park and its unique wetland landscape will remain a leading and sustainable example of how people and wildlife can successfully co-exist,” he said.
The appeal funds will go towards four major projects:
- transforming a disused section of the old railway line at South Cerney which forms a vital wildlife habitat and a key route for walkers and cyclists;
- developing a new 15km off-road cycle route in the Cotswold Water Park and new on-road cycle routes;
- creating a major regional training and competition venue for rowing and non-motorised water sports at Cleveland Lakes near Cricklade, Wiltshire, including facilities for schools and for people who are disadvantaged or disabled; and
- delivering educational programmes with the help of a new ‘Beaver Bus’ mobile roadshow.
Mr Hazel stressed that Cotswold Lakes Trust is uniquely placed to act as the driving force in conservation, enhancement and environmental protection in the Water Park.
The Trust is run by just seven staff, ably assisted by loyal volunteers who get involved with anything from tree planting and litter-picking to managing wildlife habitats. It receives no core funding from central or local government and relies heavily on donations.
“If we wish the Cotswold Water Park to flourish in a fashion beneficial to all parties, we need the wherewithal to help make it happen,” added Mr Hazel. “That’s why this Challenge Fund Appeal is essential. It will enable Cotswold Lakes Trust to deliver projects vital to the viability of the Cotswold Water Park for generations to come.”
For more information and to discuss how you can help, contact appeal@cotswoldlakestrust.org or you can make a donation online at www.cotswoldlakestrust.org/donate
