A new £1.5 million nature reserve project, the Kennet Valley Wetland Reserve, is scheduled to commence construction next month. The reserve will be built on approximately 16 hectares (40 acres) of unmanaged meadows at Undy's Meadow, located on the northern edge of Hungerford and close to the River Kennet.
The Town and Manor of Hungerford, a charity, is leading the initiative. Kate Edwards from the charity described the reserve as a "very special thing," focusing on wildlife and providing a quiet space for visitors.
Construction work is planned to take place between September and December. This timeframe is necessary to avoid disturbing nesting birds before September and to prevent issues with overly wet ground after December. The initial phase of work, which includes landscaping, paths, and boardwalks, is anticipated to be completed by next summer.