A £1 million visitor centre is being build at a wildlife haven near Worcester.

Training company Wildgoose Rural Training (WGRT) recently acquired 42 acres of land at the site of a former gravel quarry near Top Barn Farm, Holt, which has evolved into an area of significant ecological importance due to its diverse wildlife, flora and fauna.

Made possible by money from the National Lottery, the project aims to protect and enhance the habitat and make the reserve a centre for learning.

Development funding of £94,400 has also been awarded to help the firm's plans to apply for a full grant at a later date.

In addition to enabling access for local people who have a passion and interest in the wildlife of Worcestershire, the reserve will become a centre for learning and support, particularly for adults with additional needs and children excluded, or at risk of exclusion, from school.

Thanks to National Lottery players, there will be free public access to the wetland with interactive activities to educate and engage visitors.

Themes will include the habitat, local agricultural and industrial history, and traditional skills, while celebrating the students who will learn and work there.

There are plans to establish a Worcestershire heritage orchard, create a unique interactive wildlife experience for the community and take our visitors on a journey through the natural history of the county.

This is an exciting project that will offer people the chance to volunteer, explore and enjoy a natural jewel in Worcester’s already rich crown.

Vanessa Harbar, Head of HLF West Midlands, said: “We’re delighted that money raised by National Lottery players can be used to preserve Worcestershire’s important natural heritage and help more people to visit and learn about it.”