We are over the moon with the response we have had to our "Bridging the Gap" fundraising appeal. Thank you if you have already donated! 

We're keeping the appeal open and will keep you updated of progress on site.

If you can, please make a donation towards this important project, and look out for activity taking place at Attenborough Nature Reserve as construction gets underway. 

Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust starts with Attenborough Nature Reserve

We were formed in the 1960s after fighting to prevent Attenborough Gravel Pits, as they were then known, from being filled with ash from the local coal-fired power station.

In 2020, after caring for and restoring the site for people and nature for over 50 years, we worked together with the local community once more to raise well over one million pounds to purchase and care for Attenborough Nature Reserve.

Today, seven decades on from saving the reserve, we’re asking for you to support our next step towards realising our ambitious vision for Attenborough Nature Reserve.

Restoring access by replacing Works bridge

It starts with restoring a key route through the reserve with the replacement of the “Works” bridge. This pedestrian footpath, cycle path and bridleway enables visitors to enjoy all that this reserve has to offer, creating a circular walk for people to experience the positive impact nature can have on their mental and physical health.

After exhaustive work to identify the best solution to reopen the right of access, we are replacing the bridge with a new, more accessible design. This project is budgeted to cost £375,000, with further ongoing commitments towards its upkeep. To date, we have secured pledges of £90,000 in support and have earmarked a further £85,000 for the project – meaning we need to raise around £200,000 to cover budgeted costs.

We’re seeking support towards this sum from multiple sources, including grant making trusts and are asking if you – the local community that cares for the reserve - can contribute £30,000 towards our challenging target.

Project updates

February 2025

Vegetation clearance in the area in preparation for the new Works Bridge is well underway!

January 2025

Thanks to your amazing fundraising support, along with other funding, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust was able to commission contractors to start work around the bridge.

It began with ground surveying to ensure there were no obstructions when digging commenced.

Once the ground survey was completed and confirmed work could commence, EMEC, our sister ecology company, started work on clearing vegetation ready for when contractors come on site to start further work and can get access to the bridge itself with machinery.

Donate now