RSPB new Norfolk wetland plan for Cowles Drove at Hockwold

The RSPB has applied to raise water levels on land it has bought at Hockwold, next to its 1,200-acre Lakenheath Fen reserve, near Brandon.

It says in a planning statement it hopes to convert arable farmland at Cowles Drove into a mix of grassland, wet grassland and fen.

"This will remain as farmed land with arable production being replaced with cattle grazing," it adds.

"The proposal will greatly increase the wildlife value of the land and protect carbon in the soil by raising water levels."

The RSPB plans to convert arable land into a mix of grassland, wet grassland and fen (Image: The Brecks Partnership)

New sluices and dams will be installed on the site, while new ditches will be created to provide a home for fish and other animals.

"Creating new ditches will provide significant additional wetland habitat," the RSPB says.

"The raised water levels in these ditches will greatly enhance the habitat for aquatic species. All of these areas will be grazed with traditional breeds of cattle." 

The RSPB says its plan will create "a large block of wildlife rich habitat to benefit a range of key species".

Cranes have now returned to breed at Lakenheath Fen (Image: Andy Hay/RSPB)

Nearby Lakenheath Fen is home to bitterns, cranes, marsh harriers, otters and water voles, employs five staff and attracts 20,000 visitors a year.

An additional staff member will be recruited to manage the new project.

"We hope that the new land and new wildlife will attract new visitors to the reserve and the local area benefitting local tourism businesses," the RSPB statement adds.

"The land will provide significant additional cattle grazing and will allow our grazier greater flexibility in how he rotates the stock around the site."

Work will begin in the autumn if West Norfolk council agrees planning permission.