PLANS by residents to create a wildlife haven on their doorsteps are beginning to take shape.

North Billingham Residents' Association is working with Stockton Borough Council and the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust to produce a package of measures that will secure the long-term future of Cowbridge Beck.

Last month, the group held a big clean-up and work has begun this week to build a bridge over the beck. Interpretation panels and paths will also be built.

At present, water voles live on the site and kingfishers have been attempting to colonise the area for a number of years.

Greenfinch, chaffinch, wagtails and wrens are also regularly spotted at the site, along with sparrows, hawks and kestrels.

The plans for the beck were first discussed about two years ago.