Clophill Lakes Nature Reserve is marking its first anniversary with the completion of a new boardwalk, replacing the structure destroyed in an arson attack last summer.
The Greensand Trust said the rebuilt route has been funded through donations from more than 800 people, community groups and businesses, raising more than £100,000.
The reserve opened to the public on 5 April 2025, and the charity says visitor support over the past year has helped both public access and wildlife conservation at the site.
Boardwalk rebuilt
The original 70-metre boardwalk was destroyed by fire in August 2025.
Read: Appeal for public to support Bedfordshire nature reserve after arson attack
The Greensand Trust said the new route now includes a steel-framed boardwalk with a viewing platform, a causeway acting as a firebreak and around 500 metres of surfaced path.
The charity said the work has created a fully accessible circular route around Castle Lake, suitable for pedestrians, wheelchair users, mobility scooter users and people with buggies.
Read: Community fundraising paves the way for new Clophill Lakes boardwalk after arson attack
Chief executive Gill Welham said: “Thanks to the generosity and encouragement of so many, we’re pleased to announce that the new boardwalk has now been built.
“Contributions from our supporters enabled us not only to rebuild the boardwalk, but also to create a fully surfaced path linking to it, completing a fully accessible circular route around Castle Lake.
“Together, in under 8 months, we have created an even more accessible route which provides fantastic views of both lakes and is suitable for all pedestrians, including buggy, mobility scooter and wheelchair users.
“At approximately 1 mile long, this loop will once again become a firm favourite for visitors. We’re humbled by the support of the community, both near and far, who came together to make this happen. Thank you.”
Spring opening hours
The Greensand Trust said summer opening hours will begin on Saturday, 28 March, with the reserve open daily from 9am to 6pm.
The Riverside Café will operate from 9.30am to 4pm.
The charity is encouraging visitors to make the most of spring at the reserve, where wildlife includes tufted ducks, coots, skylarks, kingfishers and otters.
The site is run on a not-for-profit basis by The Greensands Trust, an environmental charity established in 1999 that works to conserve and improve access to the Greensand Ridge and surrounding area.
