News from Wicken Fen
Access throughout the Vision lands will be significantly enhanced following recent planning approval for the construction of a bridge over Reach Lode and cycleway across Burwell Fen.
The bridge and cycleway are a vital element of the 14 km Wicken Fen Spine Route which will link Wicken to Anglesey Abbey and Bottisham. The route will form part of National Cycle Route 11 connecting Cambridge to Ely, and links into Route 51 from Cambridge to Newmarket. Funding for the bridge has come from sustainable transport charity Sustrans from its Big Lottery award for the development of sustainable transport links between communities. Additional funding has been received from the Department for Communities and Local Government via its Housing Growth Fund for the development of green infrastructure in Cambridgeshire. The Trust hopes to introduce cycle hire facilities at Anglesey Abbey and Wicken to give visitors the opportunity to explore the Vision lands. The bridge has been designed to blend into the surrounding landscape with gently sloping ramps providing easy access for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Construction is expected to commence early in the New Year and should be completed by early summer.
Out on the wider Vision lands, construction of a hide overlooking the mere on Tubney Fen, near Reach will commence shortly following recent planning approval. Look out for lapwing and golden plover when visiting the Fen.
Back at Wicken Fen, improvements have been undertaken to the Adventurers Trail to improve access to Brett's and Trevelyan's Hides, which overlook scrapes by the mere. Winter wildfowl are now beginning to return with Baker's Fen a good place to spot large numbers of wigeon and teal. Hen harriers and short eared owls can regularly be seen over Sedge Fen. A good time to see harriers is at dusk when they come into roost. A perfect way to see our amazing array of wildlife is to join our wardens on a Winter Wildlife Walk on Sat 14 , Sun 29 Nov or Sat 5 Dec 10-1pm Adults £8.50 Child £4.50 (includes soup lunch).
To help you get ready for Christmas, we are holding our popular Christmas Decorations Workshop on Sat 14 Nov 10-1pm £15 (includes materials) and Christmas Wreath Making on Sat / Sun 28 & 29 December 10-12.30pm or 1.30 - 4pm. £18 (includes materials and seasonal refreshments). Tickets and further information available on 01353 720274
Hope to see you on the Fen soon.