A neglected patch of land near Derby County’s Pride Park stadium has been transformed into a thriving habitat for ground-nesting birds. Derby City Council invested £43,237.01 to create ideal breeding conditions at The Sanctuary Bird and Wildlife Reserve, located between the River Derwent and the stadium.
Workers developed plots with short vegetation, bare soil, gravel areas, and permanent water pools to attract various bird species. The new environment now supports lapwings, plovers, skylarks, reed buntings, sand martins, and blackcaps. Officials hope the site will become one of the region’s key breeding areas.
Investment Strengthens Local Conservation Efforts
The Sanctuary, established in 2004 on reclaimed industrial land, is one of ten local nature reserves in Derby. Funding for the latest improvements came from the council’s Our City, Our River scheme and Section 106 contributions from developers to offset construction impacts on the local environment.
The site remains closed to the public to protect nesting species, but visitors can use several viewing points, including two with disabled access, from the Derby Arena car park. Officials believe the project demonstrates how urban spaces can actively contribute to biodiversity recovery.
Officials Celebrate Sanctuary’s Growing Ecological Importance
Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council’s cabinet member for streetpride, parks, and leisure, praised the initiative. “This project shows our commitment to biodiversity and the local environment,” he said. “We are creating a unique habitat that helps vulnerable ground-nesting birds recover and thrive.”
Nick Moyes, who helped establish The Sanctuary, highlighted its growing importance. “The Sanctuary remains one of Derby’s least-known wildlife spaces,” he said. “Its location near the city centre and its value to unusual breeding and visiting birds make it one of the most significant reserves in the region.”
The council hopes continued investment will ensure Derby’s green spaces remain vital sanctuaries for wildlife for years to come.
