A BEAUTIFUL and popular meadow home to an abundance of wildlife could be improved.

Bridport Town Council, together with the Asker Meadows Local Nature Reserve Group, has been developing a new management plan for the riverside meadows and is now seeking public views on the draft management plan.

Asker Meadows is a much-loved and much-used green space close to the heart of Bridport and, together with the area known as New Zealand, provides much-needed green space for wildlife, community events, walkers and their dogs and a route for cyclists.

Over the past five years, the town council and the reserve group have undertaken a number of practical improvements - but more activity now needs to be considered and planned.

The draft management plan puts forward a vision for the site as 'an area rich in wildlife, enjoyed by local people for informal recreation.'

The main objectives of the plan are to:

• Maintain and enhance the grazing meadows for their wildlife interests.

• Safeguard wildlife interest along the river corridor, including non-intervention/sanctuary areas.

• Undertake tree planting and hedge management to provide wildlife interest and structure.

• Maintain surfaced paths as shared spaces for walkers and cyclists.

• Run education events to promote awareness and appreciation of wildlife and encourage responsible behaviours.

• Create seating/picnic areas to encourage people to enjoy and get to know the area.

• Manage the show field for a select number of community events.

Town clerk, Will Austin, says he is keen to hear what the local community thinks of the new plan for Asker Meadows.

“It’s very important that local people tell us what they think of the plan as it will guide future use and management over the next 10 years," said Mr Austin. "Whatever your views, let us know - a quick email will be fine.”

For more information, view the draft Asker Meadows management plan at bridport-tc.gov.uk

A display is also available for viewing at the town council offices at Mountfield during office hours Monday-Friday, and Asker Meadows Nature Reserve Group will hold a public event in the near future.

Comments can be emailed to ddixon@bridport-tc.gov.uk or posted to Bridport Town Council, Mountfield, Bridport, DT6 3JP.

The closing date for comments is Friday, April 5.