Land around an UK Power Networks electricity substation in Suffolk has been transformed for local wildlife after a pond was restored to allow Great Crested Newts (pictured) to potentially breed there.
The power distributor worked with Suffolk Wildlife Trust at the site near Beccles after identifying that it could revive the pond, which had become clogged by reeds, to be home for the newts.
The scheme is part of UK Power Networks’ Green Action Plan to enhance biodiversity at more than a hundred of its sites to attract more wildlife and improve conservation.
Suffolk Wildlife Trust ecologists surveyed the site last year and a digger removed the reeds and reprofiled its bed.
Local engineers ensured that overhead electricity lines near the pond were made safe before work started.
UK Power Networks’ environment adviser, Heather Patrick, anticipates the restored pond will have refilled naturally by next year, making it a valuable feature for local wildlife, including breeding Great Crested Newts.
She said: “The pond had become overgrown with reeds so there was almost no open water remaining at the start of the project.
“Great Crested Newts have been recorded in and around buildings on the site over the years.
“Once the pond has refilled naturally and some broadleaf plants suitable for newts to lay eggs in have re-emerged we hope the newts will use it for breeding.
“We are committed to enhancing biodiversity at our substations.
“The overall decline in biodiversity is down to many factors, including land-use change, overuse of natural resources, deforestation, pollution and climate change which can feel like an overwhelming problem.
“Our solution is take actions that will help slow or reverse this loss, including supporting local conservation initiatives.”