A local project which aims to benefit wildlife and public access to Penrose near Helston will be starting next month. The creation of small glades and improved path sections alongside the River Cober walk is being undertaken by a partnership of conservation groups under the lead of the National Trust who own the site.

The work will help improve the variety of habitats in the nationally important willow carr woodland, and sections of path will also be improved to maintain access for people. Mike Hardy, lead ranger for the National Trust at Penrose said: "The willow carr is a great place for wildlife and people, and by making some small scale adjustments to the path as the river meanders we can maintain good access. The coppicing of small areas of dense willow will provide a number of glades which will provide important variety for the variety of flowers, insects and birds in this rare type of habitat."

Historically the Cober took a meandering course through this area, but was straightened in the 1960s in response to concerns about flooding in Helston. As a result areas of the wet woodland are gradually drying out, and as part of the work a small number of pipes will be installed to encourage the re-wetting of areas of the willow carr outside of the winter season.

Jeremy Clitherow, of Natural England, added: "The willow car is a key part of the Loe Pool Site of Special Scientific Interest and so its restoration by retaining water for longer periods will be a vital step towards improving the overall condition for its wetland wildlife. As part of the project, the partnership has also taken the opportunity to improve the standards of public access through the area as it is very important that people can continue to enjoy this unique place."

Pattie Richmond, from the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, said: "This project is being funded by Defra through the Cornwall Catchment Partnership, a group of organisations with a shared interest in improving the quality of our water environment throughout Cornwall."

The access works are planned for December, with coppicing and habitat works scheduled for January. For more information see lizardand penrose.blogspot.co.uk.