A new public nature reserve in Dorset is set to officially open TODAY.
Knighton Reserve - part of the Silverlake estate, a private luxury holiday home complex - will be opening for the first time today (Sunday, May 7) at 11.30am.
The area, which borders Warmwell and Crossways near Dorchester, will provide a space for 'tranquility' and natural habitats for wildlife.
The 15.5 hectare green space is to be classified as a Suitable Alternative Natural Green Space (SANG), and has been 'carefully designed' to meet the needs of a 'wide range of wildlife species'.
Surrounded by stunning heathland and winding waterways, it offers a tranquil place to wander through and is made up of grassland, woodlands, scrubs, waterbodies, lakeside beeches and reed beds.
The public will also be able to make use of dedicated walking routes, dog-friendly zones, paths and birdwatching lookouts.
There is a small car park available for drivers which can be accessed via Frome Valley Road.
However parking is 'limited' and visitors are encouraged to visit by utilising public transport or on foot or bike where possible.
A fully detailed map showing the layout of the nature reserve and locations of notable spots and the car park can be found by clicking here.
The official opening of Knighton Reserve coincides with the King's coronation weekend and celebrations are planned.
Those who visit for the official opening are also invited to take part in the traditional Coronation Coracle races on the lakes between 1pm and 4pm.
The one-person coracle boats are one of the most unusual to paddle along Britain’s waterways and can be traced back thousands of years.
Meanwhile, a coronation picnic and fun events for children and their adults will also be taking place at the nature reserve this weekend.
Will Vicary, director of land and planning for Habitat First Group, which owns and manages the Silverlake Estate and Knighton Reserve, said: “The primary purpose is to provide a space for wildlife to thrive in its natural habitat.
"We are delighted to be able to open this space up to the local community.
"Open space is incredibly important for mental health and we hope that people will come and enjoy the space, but ask everyone to understand that we all have a responsibility to protect the animals, insects and plant life that have made the SANG their home.”
Whilst Knighton Reserve is fully accessible to the community, the wider estate and Silverlake facilities will remain exclusive to guests and homeowners.
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