A £70,000 scheme to improve a wetland area in Wrose is expected to be completed by September.

The work at Wrose Quarry Wetlands is one of the projects being funded by the £25m Shipley Towns Fund – awarded to the area by Government.

The 2.5 acres site is a former brickworks off Carr Lane, and the changes will include an improved network of paths and the excavation of new ponds and wetlands, so that the space can be enjoyed all year round.

It is expected to be completed in September, and work will include new drainage and at least 30 metres of additional stone pitching installed as part of the extended pathway.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “Work has been going really well, on what is a significant project that will really transform this historic part of Wrose.

“These improvements mean more people will have the opportunity to enjoy it, well into the future.”

Chair of Shipley Towns Fund, Adam Clerkin, said: “Our aim has always been to make the site more accessible and increase the overall biodiversity of the area, whilst considering the needs of the people who currently use the quarry for recreation – typically local residents and walkers.”

So far the team has used the time of 121 volunteers, who have been up-skilled to work on the project. They also hope to involve Highcroft Youth Centre, Low Ash Primary School and Shipley College.

Col Powell, leading the project for The Conservation Volunteers, said: “We are really excited to be working on this project. It’s been incredible to see the enthusiasm and the effort from local people, the team has worked so hard and made real progress.

“There is still plenty to be done but when the work is finished, it will be a sanctuary for people to visit all year round, with the changing seasons bringing changing views.

“The new ponds and wetland features will complement the existing habitats, opening up the site to a broad range of flora and fauna.”

The finished area will also include information boards, benches, boardwalk paths and new native hedgerow planting.

Other Towns Fund projects in Shipley include the re-opening of the town centre toilets and the development of a business hub in Shipley Library.

Another Towns Fund project will se the refurbishment of the town’s Kirkgate Centre. A planning application for that work has recently been approved.