Filby Parish Council

This project will construct a raised walkway to enable safe access to Filby Broad shore by all members of the community, including adaptations for wheelchair users and for the visually impaired. The walkway will incorporate platforms for angling, bird watching, and environmental education.

The project will enhance the broad-shore habitat, reduce bank erosion and assist in protecting the area, which has been designated an SSSI. The project involves design and practical works, interpretation and publicity.

The need for such a project was first identified by Filby Parish Council in 1997; they are now leading the project with work on the ground coordinated by the Broads Authority. Another essential partner is Essex and Suffolk Water Ltd., which owns the land and has part funded the project.

Benefits

In addition to improving the local environment, the project will enhance skills in environmental management by providing opportunities for trainees at NVQ level. A trainee Project Assistant will also to be appointed to help to supervise work and to provide a good link between the local community and the Broads Authority. To ensure that the benefits accrue to all sections of the community, the parish council will publicise the new facilities to the general community, disabled groups and school groups.

Outputs

The expected benefits include:

· 15 local people trained in countryside management
· 0.035 ha of land demonstrating improved environmental management
· 1 interpretation site established
· 100 volunteer hours spent on the works
· 3 partner organisations engaged in community activities
· 5 community events held
· 240 Disabled visitors

Grant awarded

Broads & Rivers LEADER+ has offered £10,000 towards a total project cost of £61,000. Additional match funding has been offered by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Essex and Suffolk Water, the Broads Authority’s Sustainable Development Fund and the Environment Agency.

Contact

Cath Johnson, The Broads Authority. cath.johnson@broads-authority.gov.uk