THE conservation charity offering “substantial funds” to the future for a county nature reserve has called a public meeting to pitch its plans.

Siren Conservation - backed by specialist cycling company Peloton Market Services - sees Bodenham Lakes as a self-sustaining showcase for all a “green” Herefordshire can be.

Siren is calling a meeting for Bodenham’s Siward James community centre from 7pm tonight (June 5) to form a friends group for the Lakes.

“The Parish Plan is suggesting that houses are built on part of the existing reserve, Herefordshire is seeking to transfer ownership of the lake and surrounds - our aim is to ensure the lakes remain forever as a reserve for people and wildlife," said Siren’s Sasha Norris.

Bodenham Lakes, the largest area of open water in the county, is up for grabs amongst a host of natural assets Herefordshire Council can longer afford to keep – as reported by the Hereford Times in February.

Sasha  says the Siren bid proposed a continuation of the council’s current reserve management and its emphasis on public access while creating a “low key” conservation education centre and locally sourced cafe showcasing the county’s farming and biodiversity.