Breckland Council funds protected species support in Dereham

The Etling Green Residents’ Association (EGRA) will install new bat, bird and owl boxes, at the site, thanks to a £500 grant from Breckland Council.

EGRA helps manage, conserve and protect Etling Green, a registered common east of the town, which is classed as a Norfolk County Wildlife Site because of the rare and protected animals and plants to be found there. 

Cllr Alison Webb (Image: Gary Donnison Photography 2021)

Councillors Linda Monument, William Richmond and Alison Webb, who represent Dereham Neatherd ward, said in a joint statement: “Etling Green is an integral part of the community landscape and it is great to see the area receive funding to help further its conservation efforts.”

As well as paying for the new animal boxes across the site the grant will also enable the sowing of new wildflower patches, a great habitat for a range of insects as well as promoting pollination. 

Councillor Helen Crane, Breckland's executive member for sustainability, said: “The installation of the bat, bird and owl boxes will provide a safe space for protected species to nest, while the wildflower garden will also provide excellent habitat for insects. 

“This is part of our Breckland 2035 commitment to promote sustainability in the district and to work with local groups to enhance the environment.”

Breckland is paying for the scheme in 'partnership' with contractors Serco.

Gary Edwards, Serco Norfolk's senior contract manager, said: "A total of £6,000 worth of these grants have now been shared across a diverse range of eight projects in Breckland. 

“Schemes like those at Etling Green will benefit the environment and local communities for many years to come.”

To find out more about such projects, visit www.breckland.gov.uk/funding-map