Work is set to get underway on a new wildlife haven for birds, bees and butterflies.

The Swifts golf course and driving range in Carlisle city centre is set to become the very first urban bee and butterfly oasis in the North West.

The Swifts, a 17-hectare site in the centre of Carlisle, which includes grassland, woodland and riverbanks, will be transformed into an urban nature reserve thanks to £80,000 funding from Cumbria Waste Management Environment Trust (CWMET) and £8,000 from the Environment Agency. 

The funding will breathe new life into the site, transforming once manicured greens and fairways into wildflower meadows, species-rich wetland and native woodland, helping to boost populations of bees and butterflies.

The site is owned by Carlisle City Council, who will be working collaboratively with Cumbria Wildlife Trust to ensure the successful delivery of the project.

With improved access and signage, and within close walking distance of Carlisle city centre, the site aims to be an oasis for wildlife and people alike. The funding has been secured by Cumbria Wildlife Trust, and working in partnership with Carlisle City Council, the restoration works will fall under the Get Cumbria Buzzing Project. This project, which is supported by the National Heritage Lottery Fund, aims to create and link pollinator habitat across northwest Cumbria.

“Walking can make us happier and healthier by providing a chance to get some head space and connect with nature. It is a great way to help us get moving while exploring our local communities.”

Mike Diaper, Executive Director Children, Young People and Tackling Inactivity, Sport England

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of access to the outdoors, staying active and the wellbeing benefits of walking.  To support our local communities achieve this we continue to deliver our successful programme of health walks both within the city and across our beautiful district.  In partnership with the Ramblers Association a programme of Wellness Walks are now available, as lock down restrictions are eased. Wellness Walks are friendly short group walks within our local area, all walks are led by trained walk leaders.  

“Walking can make us happier and healthier by providing a chance to get some head space and connect with nature. It is a great way to help us get moving while exploring our local communities.”

Mike Diaper, Executive Director Children, Young People and Tackling Inactivity, Sport England

Tuesday Trundles are walks run by trained volunteers exploring our beautiful local area.  These are more strenious walks than the Wellness Walks, involving walking for 2 hours in more challenging environments.

If you would like to come along, pleasae pre-book and spaces on each walk are limited.  To book please contact Carlisle City Council on 07935 001511 or email [email protected]

Designated in 1913 Kingmoor North is the oldest nature reserve in Cumbria, follow the old Waverley railway line to discover areas of mature woodland as well as newer planted areas in this little wildlife haven.