IMPROVEMENT works at a popular nature reserve are expected to be given the go-ahead.
The Lower Ure Conservation Trust, which runs Nosterfield nature reserve, a former quarry near Ripon, estimates that between 5,000 and 10,000 people visit the site annually.
It wants to build a new timber bird hide with a grassed roof on the southern part of the site and create new scrapes - seasonally flooded pools.
It also wants to lay a half-kilometre footpath along the southern edge of the reserve from the outskirts of West Tanfield village to the interpretation building on the site.
The Trust claims the new scrapes will add significantly to the value of the reserve not only in bio-diversity terms but also in enhancing its role in holding water and the subsequent flood alleviation elsewhere. Solar power will be used for energy.
Planning officials say the works would improve the habitat and provide for the greater enjoyment an understanding of both regular and new visitors to the site.
They are urging planning councillors to approve the scheme when they meet in Northallerton on Thursday.
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