Cosmeston Lakes Country Park could become local nature
reserve
Published 06 January 2012
This popular country park could become a local
nature reserve if residents support the idea.
The Vale of Glamorgan Council is seeking the views of
the community on the proposal to declare Cosmeston Lakes Country
Park, Penarth, a local nature reserve (LNR).
It is hoped that LNR status, which is designated under the
National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, will help
make nature more accessible to Vale residents and visitors.
Council officers believe LNR status will help protect habitats
and species in the 110-hectare former quarry site and help forge
partnerships between the council, nature conservation organisations
and the community.
The continued emphasis at the park, which attracts more than
200,000 visitors a year, will be on public access, education and
conservation to benefit the health and wellbeing of the local
community.
Cabinet member for leisure and tourism, Councillor Anthony
Ernest, said: "Cosmeston Lakes are managed to protect the natural
flora and fauna. An LNR’s true value comes from making nature
accessible to everyone.
"The designation of local nature reserve would reflect the
excellent work being done by the council to manage the area’s
outstanding biodiversity and the significant opportunities for
public enjoyment and community involvement, education and
research."
Some parts of Cosmeston Lakes Country Park are already
designated areas of special scientific interest (SSSI). Being
awarded LNR status would confirm the importance of the park to the
environment and the biodiversity of the countryside in the Vale of
Glamorgan.
To let the council know your views, by March 10, 2012, email:
cosmestonlakes@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
or write to:
Steve Latham
Country Parks and Commons Manager
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park,
Lavernock Road,
Penarth,
Vale of Glamorgan
CF64 5UY
If the proposal is supported, the outcome will be
released by May 30, and LNR designation implemented in early June
2012.
For information on Cosmeston Lakes Country Park visit the
park's pages.