A CONSERVATION area could soon be turned into a thriving habitat for the endangered great crested newt.

The Church Park Conservation Area in Rodbourne, Swindon, once provided a valuable breeding ground for the protected newts.

However, in recent years the pond has become filled with debris and requires dredging.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust spokeswoman Jo Sayers said: "The pond is being filled in by leaf litter from overhanging trees, which is decomposing and stripping the pond of its oxygen.

"The bacteria which breaks down the litter causes the water to go bad."

The situation has become so serious that in November dead fish were found in the pond.

The Trust has now joined forces with Stratton Parish Council to revitalise the area.

A public consultation exercise has been launched to find out how people who use the site want it to develop.

Besides dredging the pond, the trust has suggested planting wildflowers, putting up nesting boxes and clearing scrub.

Staff from the Trust will be visiting the area to ask residents for their views.

A community group is planned, which will bid for Lottery cash to carry out the work.

Further information is available from Ms Sayers on Swindon 526229.