Barnes towpath will be given a much-needed makeover to help support and improve ecological conditions at the Leg of Mutton Reservoir.

The West London River Group (WLRG) has been awarded £5,000 to improve the most important part of the River Thames Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation.

Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, Vice Chair of Richmond Council’s Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sport Committee said: “I am delighted that the Council’s Civic Pride grant has been able to support this project.

“The installation of bird-boxes in larger trees along the towpath will encourage more birds to nest and roost in the area.”

The improvements will also provide nesting, roosting and feeding opportunities as well as connectivity to the wider landscape.

The WLRG and Thames Strategy Kew to Chelsea will work in partnership with the Parks team at the Council to install a wildfowl nesting platform on the Reservoir, installing nesting boxes for birds, particularly owls, and planting new trees to replace those that have fallen or been felled due to decay.

Ruth Hutton, Thames Strategy Kew to Chelsea Co-Ordinator said: “It is a great project and an example of Partnership working between local community groups, the TSKC and Richmond Council.”

For more information visit: www.richmond.gov.uk/civic_pride_fund