OPEN DAY ANNOUNCED FOR PRENTON CONSERVATION PROJECT!

Prenton RUFC and National Grid have joined forces in a 10-year partnership in a bid to not only restore the natural beauty of Prenton Claypit, but also provide better access and an educational nature trail for the wider community. The project is being launched with an Open Day on Weds 22nd May at 12.30pm.
CLICK HERE TO ATTEND THE OPEN DAY OR FOLLOW THE PROJECT ON FACEBOOK

Members of the public are invited to the event to learn about the huge conservation plans for the wild space. The project, which comes as part of National Grid’s commitment to their own sustainability and environmental targets, is the latest in a series of community-driven initiatives that have branded Prenton RUFC as ‘more than just a rugby club’.
As with every sports team, the results on the pitch are important but for Prenton RUFC, the results off the pitch are just as vital. This is epitomised by their transition into a charity organisation, taking what it means to be a rugby club in 2024 to a whole new level.
CLICK HERE TO ATTEND THE OPEN DAY OR FOLLOW THE PROJECT ON FACEBOOK

Situated behind Prenton RUFC Community Hub, the Prenton Dell Claypit is an area of both flora-rich woodland and numerous habitats, which has ultimately led to the area being home to a huge variety of birds and butterflies, as well as species such as great crested newts.
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National Grid have a long standing relationship with the site, once a thriving former environment partnership with Groundwork which created many of the existing pathways throughout the site. And more recently there was a one off project with the rugby club to improve access and highlight some of the species and biodiversity that visitors could expect to see on site.
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In 2015, Hilary Ash and Michael Inger from Wirral Wildlife carried out a botanical survey during which many rare plants were recorded. These included four types of orchids as well as butterflies and other invertebrates.
However, since the research was carried out the area has been affected by the spread of self-seeded willow trees and other, non-native trees. Now, thanks to Prenton RUFC and National Grid’s forward thinking, the 10-year project aims to protect and enhance the biodiversity in the area while also increasing the accessibility for the public.
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One of the driving forces behind the project is Prenton RUFC’s ever-growing relationship with the local community, with those involved in the project hopeful the space will bring joy and educational opportunity to both residents and local schools/groups. The project is split into several development stages, with all work being completed under the guidance of Wirral Wildlife.
The first of these is the installation of gravel paths. Not only will this provide safe underfoot in a rather boggy space but will also enable its use for the community as soon as possible. Following this the project will turn towards restoring the ponds as well as installing benches and season-specific signs to aid in educating people of the species that call the Claypit their home.
CLICK HERE TO ATTEND THE OPEN DAY OR FOLLOW THE PROJECT ON FACEBOOK

Mike Coffin, 65, was initially involved in the discussions several years ago about what could be done with the space but ultimately nothing came of it. Therefore, when the club were approached earlier this year by National Grid, it was ultimately too exciting an opportunity to turn down.
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He said: “For years we’ve been talking about having a nature trail but in the past, nothing has come of it. But then this year, National Grid – who actually own the piece of land – got in touch with us and asked whether we would be interested in taking out a lease and turning it into a nature reserve.”
He continued: “The whole point of this is to preserve the area and make it accessible to people. Not only do we want to make it accessible to local people, we want to get groups involved and schools. We’ve had discussions with Scout Leaders and the eco schools’ Officer who are both very keen to use it. We hope it can be a real educational tool for those groups.”
CLICK HERE TO ATTEND THE OPEN DAY OR FOLLOW THE PROJECT ON FACEBOOK

Meanwhile, Helene Parpworth of National Grid said: “We have a big commitment to sustainability and have a number of green projects throughout the country. The Prenton project is particularly special as it will have a big environmental impact as well as a societal one — it’s inspiring to see Prenton Rugby Club’s work in the community and it’s great to team up with them for this conservation project that will benefit many.”
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The hope is that the beautiful area will be enjoyed by dog-walkers, eco schools and local scout groups, while also being a safe haven for mental health groups. It is very much a community project and provides a welcome opportunity to expand upon their community garden which already serves as a brilliant place for local residents — all part of the wider vision to bridge gaps in the local community.
The Claypit is looking for eco-minded people who are enthusiastic about the project to get involved with and to volunteer their time to help progress it. They are also looking for more groups and schools to use it, and of course most importantly enjoy it. The Open Day on Weds 22nd 12.30pm is a great opportunity to do so and will feature talks, ribbon cutting and refreshments.
CLICK HERE TO ATTEND THE OPEN DAY OR FOLLOW THE PROJECT ON FACEBOOK

Prenton RUFC and National Grid have joined forces in a 10-year partnership in a bid to not only restore the natural beauty of Prenton Claypit, but also provide a safe and educational nature trail for the wider community. The project is being launched with an Open Day on Weds 22nd May at 12.30pm.
Prenton Claypit / Prenton RUFC Community Hub, Prenton Dell Road, Birkenhead, CH43 3BS
CLICK HERE TO ATTEND THE OPEN DAY OR FOLLOW THE PROJECT ON FACEBOOK