The rare Southern Damselfly can be found at Itchen Valley Country Park
A survey has been undertaken by Eastleigh Borough Council at the Country Park
A stronghold for wildlife and the internationally rare Southern Damselfly has been surveyed by Eastleigh Borough Council.
The Council's Countryside Services team utilised UK Shared Prosperity Fund money to undertake a site appraisal and feasibility study of the water meadows at Itchen Valley Country Park.
The land is a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of the rich variety of wildlife it supports.
The wet grassland and ditches also create good conditions for wetland flowers, birds and insects.
The study explored how sensitive enhancements could be made to improve the bridge network and maintain the access routes across the meadow.
The Council’s cabinet member for the Environment, Cllr Rupert Kyrle, said: “This access is vital for the delivery of the conservation grazing program and in meeting the management commitments of the SSSI and SAC.
“Following the findings of the feasibility study, the Council has already proceeded with the repair and replacement of some of the existing infrastructure, with more to come in 2026.
“The improvements will also see that safe pedestrian access for visitors is maintained, both around the beautiful and diverse meadows and when connecting to the Itchen Way, a long-distance footpath on the western boundary of the Country Park.”
As the water meadows are naturally prone to flooding during the winter months, visitors are advised that the site may become inaccessible or hazardous at times. For this reason, the area is not recommended for walking during periods of wet weather.