Plans approved to transform Lincolnshire golf course into wildlife haven

Major plans to convert a former golf course on the Lincolnshire coast into a bustling nature reserve have been approved.

Having acquired the land in 2020, the National Trust has now revealed its plans for habitat restoration at the site near Sandilands, which will include open water and islands, reedbeds, grassland and sand dunes, with birds to be among the key beneficiaries of the landscape change.

Located between Sutton on Sea and Chapel St Leonards, the land covers an area of 30 ha and cost £800,000 to purchase. The funds were raised locally through donations.

 An artist's impression of the wetland which will be created by the project (Peter Farmer / Wayne Lagden).

The charity said it expected work on adaptations to the land and an on-site visitor hub would be completed in 2025.

According to plans approved by East Lindsey District Council, the existing building on site would be renovated and would contain a cafe and a community space. A visitor welcome centre at the northern tip of the reserve, designed to run carbon-neutrally, would also feature a cafe and a community space.

In the future, there would be Changing Places toilet facilities suitable for children and adults with accessibility needs, the plans stated.

Kirsty James, general manager for Sandilands, said: "We're excited to see work begin, and we know how important it is that progress is sustainable and respects wildlife and local people. We want to do the community proud, and we expect some wonderful experiences to take place as the journey unfolds."

The project is supported by the Connected Coast Town Deal with a £2-million investment.