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• Managing Organisation:

  Bournemouth Borough Council

• Contact:

  Michael Rowland

• Telephone:

  01202 437827 
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Information about this open space

The Stour Valley Local Nature Reserve is an oasis of tranquillity amidst the urban and commercial bustle of north Bournemouth.  In recognition of its wildlife value it was designated a Local Nature Reserve in 1995.  To sit and fish, walk the dog or simply to enjoy the wildlife here is a pleasure; it’s surprising that you are only a mile away from Bournemouth International Airport and the Castlepoint shopping centre.  The reserve is a fantastic countryside resource for the densely populated north of the borough and is home to otters, barn owls and kingfishers, but perhaps it’s the diversity of butterflies and dragonflies that is most impressive.  Throughout the year, site based Community Parks and Countryside Officers run walks, talks and regular group activities, with the Stour Valley Festival being a weekend-long highlight in the Bournemouth events calendar.  The site was recently successful with a People’s Millions lottery bid, which will be spent on improving wheelchair/buggy access through the reserve, providing new signage and interpretation and a replacement fishing platform.  By the end of 2007 we hope the site will be ready to welcome the whole community.  During the summer months the site is home to a small herd of docile Shetland cattle, a welcome change from strimmers.  The Stour Valley Way winds its way through the length of the site on its 77-mile journey from Stourhead, in Wiltshire, to the coast at Hengistbury Head; a treat for the more adventurous walker.