An appeal has been launched to improve Langford Lakes, near Salisbury. Picture: WWT

Wildlife trust launches £10,000 appeal to fund improvements at Salisbury nature reserve

Jamie JonesOctober 9, 20260 Comment0

A £10,000 appeal has been launched to improve access, visitor facilities and wildlife interpretation at a nature reserve near Salisbury.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust (WWT) has launched its Autumn Appeal for Langford Lakes, near Salisbury, and Lower Moor Farm, near Malmesbury, to install boardwalks, signage and create “welcoming visitor spaces” and boost visitor numbers and improve their experience.

The trust has secured a “significant grant” from the Landfill Communities Fund which will cover much of the work, but needs to raise £10,000 to unlock the full value of the grants.

“Spending time in nature can lift mood, ease stress and support physical health,” a WWT spokesperson said.

“Improving visitor facilities at two of the Trust’s most visited reserves will help more people feel welcome, comfortable and confident exploring these wild places. Those positive experiences can also deepen people’s connection with local wildlife and inspire them to help protect it.

“Both reserves offer visitors the chance to glimpse a kingfisher or wading birds such as lapwings, experiences that can spark a lifelong appreciation of native wildlife.

“The planned improvements include updated interpretation in the hides, with clear, engaging information for regular birders and first-time visitors alike, that will help more people understand what they are seeing, share their discoveries and feel part of protecting these special places.”

They said the Trust needs to raise £10,000 in donations before it can access the Landfill Communities Fund grants.

“Donations to the Autumn Appeal will provide the essential final contribution needed to unlock the grants and turn these improvements into reality at both reserves,” the spokesperson went on.

“At Langford Lakes, the Trust wants to remove barriers between people and wildlife.

“Supporters have already contributed towards an accessible boardwalk across the muddy ground near the Sand Martin hide.

“Further donations to the Autumn Appeal are now needed before work can begin and the boardwalk can become part of a circular route around the whole lake, enabling more visitors to explore the reserve with confidence.”

Becki Mckinlay, director of engagement and fundraising at WWT, said: “We want as many people as possible to experience the joy of nature whether that be through their first go at bird watching in one of our hides or a gentle walk around the lakes taking time to stop and enjoy the views.

“We know Lower Moor Farm and Langford Lakes are already much loved by visitors, and we want everyone to be able to enjoy them. We know that when people experience nature, they come to care about it, and they are more likely to take action to protect it.”

For more details, and to support the Autumn Appeal, visit www.wiltshirewildlife.org/appeals.