Reed beds in Gloucester Docks

THE Canal & River Trust tells it is boosting greenery and nature in Gloucester Docks with new floating reed beds in Victoria Basin.

The floating eco-systems will attract birds and insects and provide shelter for fish, bringing more wildlife into the heart of Gloucester. They will give the docks a more natural feel, providing a tranquil, attractive landscape for canal side visitors and boaters alike.

Splash of greenery

The aquatic plants are the latest wildlife-friendly splash of greenery at the docks following the introduction of the floating reed beds in the Barge Arm last year.

Volunteers are helping to plant the floating beds with a variety of reeds and sedges, with added colour coming from yellow flag irises, purple loosestrife and other flowering plants. The floating beds are made from 100% recyclable, non-toxic, environmentally friendly materials by Scottish firm Biomatrix Water.

The project is made possible thanks to the support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery. Players of People's Postcode Lottery have raised over £18 million, awarded by Postcode Earth Trust, to support the Trust in a variety of waterway projects, including greening up this section of the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.

Different species

Rob Williams, Ecologist at Canal & River Trust, told:

"The floating reed beds make a huge difference to biodiversity and bring lots of different species into the urban area at the docks. Canals already bring wildlife into the heart of cities like Gloucester and this is a great way to enhance these nature superhighways.