A partnership has been established to reduce the risk of flooding as progress is made to restore more than 3,000 hectares of wetland in Huntingdonshire. The Great Fen Project, is said to be one of the UK s most ambitious habitat restoration projects ever

A partnership has been established to reduce the risk of flooding as progress is made to restore more than 3,000 hectares of wetland in Huntingdonshire.

The Great Fen Project, is said to be one of the UK's most ambitious habitat restoration projects ever undertaken.

When finished, the project which has the support of HRH Prince Charles, will create a 3,700 hectare wetland by joining Woodwalton Fen and Holme Fen nature reserves.

The latest backing comes from the Middle Level Commissioners who are responsible for 120 miles of watercourse, much of which is Great Fen Project land.

The group has worked with the project before and Woodwalton Nature Reserve is used at to store water at times of high flow.

However, as the project gains more land to restore to wetland habitat it will seek to enhance flood protection by increasing flood storage areas within the Great Fen.

Great Fen project manager Chris Gerrard said: "We are delighted to welcome the Middle Level Commissioners on board.

"They have already played an invaluable part as a member of the Great Fen Project steering group, advising us on management of the project area.

"We look forward to working with them in the future to continue to create a project that enhances flood protection and benefits fenland wildlife."

Chief executive of the Middle Level Commissioners Iain Smith said: "The Commissioners; roles, encompassing flood defence, navigation, water level management and conservation duties correlate well with the aims and aspirations of the project."

INFORMATION: Visit www.greatfen.org.uk