Longford Nature Park is set to benefit from a series of improvements designed to enhance wildlife habitats and make the site more accessible for visitors.
Located opposite Longford Park Car Park, the small nature reserve is a designated local wildlife site and is of high importance to the city’s biodiversity. It also serves as a public pathway connecting to the Coventry Building Society Arena and the Coventry Canal.
The project will start in September 2026 and be delivered by Coventry City Council’s Urban Ranger Team in partnership with the Friends of Longford Park and the Council’s ecology team. The plans will significantly benefit the area’s biodiversity and the local community and consist of:
- A new boardwalk to improve access through the site's muddy area, allowing visitors to enjoy the nature reserve year-round while protecting sensitive habitats from erosion and trampling.
- A major clean-up of the site will remove fly-tipped waste and rubbish that has accumulated over time, creating a cleaner and safer environment for people and wildlife.
- Habitat restoration and improved management will be at the forefront of the improvements to enhance the site’s ecological value. This will involve woodland management, restoring and creating shallow wetlands and selectively removing vegetation to create a better habitat for different species.
After these enhancements, the Park will continue to be managed for five years to monitor how wildlife responds and to carry out further habitat improvements where needed.
Councillor Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, said: “These improvements are fantastic news for Longford Nature Park and for everyone who enjoys spending time there.
“By recovering habitats while making the Nature Park more accessible, we are ensuring more people can enjoy the benefits of nature close to home. Green spaces like Longford Park play an important role in supporting our health and wellbeing, tackling climate change and creating a greener, more resilient Coventry for future generations.
“I would encourage residents to get involved and attend any upcoming volunteer days with the Rangers to support their local parks and help us continue protecting and enhancing these valuable spaces.”
The improvements will be funded by Section 106 biodiversity funding, which supports projects that aim to protect and enhance local wildlife. If you would like to learn more about the project or get involved in volunteering opportunities, email ecology@coventry.gov.uk.