A surprising wildlife haven in the heart of urban Grangemouth has celebrated its 20th anniversary. It is exactly 20 years since the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre was opened by Magnus Magnusson, journalist, historian, broadcaster and at the time the Chairman of Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). On 21st May 2012, his daughter, journalist and broadcaster Sally Magnusson, visited the spot where Magnus planted a tree 20 years ago to plant one herself.
Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre has come a long way since its beginnings in 1992. Through much hard work the reserve has been transformed from what was once disused industrial wasteland into a green wildlife oasis containing a great variety of wildflowers, woodland birds, fungi and insects and amphibians around the specially created ponds.
Speaking on the anniversary, Scottish Wildlife Trust Chief Executive Simon Milne said:
“The Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre is a great example of pioneering conservation in an industrial setting. Scottish Wildlife Trust members and volunteers have helped us transform Jupiter from a railway marshalling yard into a haven for dragonflies, butterflies, woodland birds and fungi. We’ve helped thousands of children get closer to nature here and inspired them to look after Scotland’s wildlife for the future.”
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the Scottish Wildlife Trust unveiled new wildlife inspired mosaic art works and ceramic tiles for the Centre, designed and made by local young people, with the help of local mosaic artist Jaine Marriot and ceramic artist Fiona Byrne-Sutton.
On Saturday 26th May, Jupiter will be celebrating with the local public, hosting an Anniversary Open Day from 1-4pm. There will be all kinds of fun drop in workshops taking place throughout the gardens, woods and wetlands from willow weaving to environmental art.
Jennifer Dunn, the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Jupiter Ranger said:
“This special Anniversary Open Day will be a fantastic way for people to come and enjoy their local nature reserve. It’s an inspirational place to visit for children and adults alike.”
For more information on the reserve, visit the Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre page.