A nationally important wetland in Craven is set to receive £18,000 to enhance its wildlife conservation work and to develop educational and tourism benefits.

The Long Preston Wet Grassland Project (LPWGP) was started in 2004 with the aim of improving the important habitats of the Ribble floodplain between Long Preston and Settle by working closely with farmers.

In early spring, the site provides a habitat of national importance for a range of breeding waders, as well as other winter wildfowl species such as teal, pintail and wigeon.

Now the project will continue thanks to a grant of £18,347 from the Yorkshire Dales LEADER programme, which aims to improve the quality of life and prosperity in rural areas through local initiatives and projects.

Funding totalling £4,664 has also been secured from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and Natural England.

The RSPB will continue to employ a wetlands advisor whose role will include supporting local farmers and landowners, working with local volunteers to monitor bird populations and increasing awareness of the project and its achievements.

In addition, the new phase will bring a minimum of 25 hectares into management through the Higher Level Stewardship Scheme managed by Natural England. This will include planting a woodland by the river.

The project also aims to improve access and understanding of the site and encourage visitors to enjoy the floodplain’s wildlife and landscape.

And improvements will be made to the dedicated website, local businesses will be supported and educational events will be held for schools, college students, local community groups and visitors.

Dave Tayler, deputy director at the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, one of the key partners involved in LEADER and the LPWGP, said: “The site now provides a valuable and varied habitat for nationally important wading birds and aquatic plants, including species such as curlew, redshank, snipe and lapwing, along with the rare northern spike-rush.

“At the peak of the season the area can be home to an impressive gathering of 2,500 birds.”

Visitors can already enjoy a circular Long Preston Wetland Trail, starting at Settle or Long Preston railway stations.