IMPROVEMENTS are to be made to a major Hampshire nature reserve after a deal to take it into council ownership was agreed.

Fishlake Meadows, in Romsey, is now officially owned by Test Valley Borough Council following a deal with housing developer Bellway Homes.

The ownership was transferred to the authority as part of the Oxlease Farm housing scheme, which Bellway are currently spearheading.

The agreement sees the council take a step further towards making improvements to the site’s appearance and ecology.

“This is great news for the council as it means that we are now able to move forward on plans to recruit a partner to manage the site,” community and leisure cabinet member, Cllr Tony Ward, said.

“We have carried out extensive public consultation about how we can improve the area and we are looking forward to progressing these ideas.

“Our priority is to enhance the area for wildlife while also making it more accessible to the public.”

Test Valley Borough Council has previously invited a number of organisations to submit tenders to manage the site and will present its recommended bidder to the authority’s cabinet in June.

However, local naturalist Andy Lester has warned the council must not let the reserve fall into disrepair.

“If it is not properly maintained, it will quickly resort back to woodland and that is so good for wildlife,” he added.

“The key here is that it is got to be cared for correctly.

“This is the jewel in the crown of Romsey.”

Fishlake Meadows covers approximately 60 hectares and comprises a mix of open and standing water, reed bed and swamp.

The area is known for its beautiful and unique wildlife, including more than 170 species of birds. which include 66 listed as either red or amber on the list of birds of greatest conservation concern. Notable bird species include osprey, Cetti’s warbler and grasshopper warbler.

Mr Lester added: “I think, for me, it is about maintaining the woodland habitat.

“That provides a home for a lot of animals, including birds like ospreys."