Plans for a Local Nature Reserve at West End Drive in Ilkeston that residents will be able to help name has been given the green light.

The new nature reserve, at the site of the former Pewit Golf Course, is one of six Shared Prosperity Funding projects that the town is set to benefit from.

The public consultation, approved by Council Executive at its February meeting, will ask for residents’ views on the site plan and its name, with suggestions that it could see the nature reserve named in tribute to the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, with ‘Jubilee Local Nature Reserve/Park’ amongst the options.

The project will be possible following the recent award of £250k as part of the Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, alongside £261k for the project funded by a section 106 payment linked to the former Stanton Ironworks. The funding will also support biodiversity enhancements at Manor Floods Local Nature Reserve.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.

Councillor Carol Hart, Leader of Erewash Borough Council, says:

“I look forward to hearing people’s views on the nature reserve project in Ilkeston and what they would like it to be called. The plans for the area will include the planting of lots of trees to benefit the environment and help address the impact of climate change. It will be a lovely place for people to relax and enjoy wildlife surrounded by nature.”