A new recycled plastic bench has been installed at Stonebridge Wild River Reserve in Marlborough, and project managers say this is only the beginning of some huge improvements to the site.

The award-winning water meadow on the east side of Marlborough is a huge attraction to nature lovers and visitors to the town.

But residents have been calling for seating in the area for quite some time, as they say more can be done to improve the site.

“We know that the seating is something users have requested within the area, and with the generous support of locally based business AM, we have been able to provide,” said Anna Forbes, senior project manager for Action for the River Kennet, who jointly own the meadow with Marlborough Town Council.

“The site attracts visitors of all ages, so getting another robust bench with a back and arms was important."

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: ARK volunteers installed the new bench after popular demand.ARK volunteers installed the new bench after popular demand. (Image: ARK)

Martha Fogg, managing director at AM whose offices are based close to the river reserve added:

“The AM team are proud to volunteer with ARK and provide financial support.

“Our staff frequently enjoy using the Stonebridge Wild River Reserve as an escape during the working day and we are so grateful to have such a lovely space in the heart of Marlborough.”

The 15-acre reserve has already undergone a number of improvements this year, including an extension to one of the recycled plastic boardwalks to improve access and a new bird watching panel.

Speaking about the future of the site, ARK has revealed that more ramp extensions to the wetland boardwalk are the next enhancement currently in the pipeline.