Council celebrates award for rare plant conservation
The award has been presented the Blackwater Valley Countryside Trust. It celebrates the team's outstanding management of Gingerbread Sedge. This is a rare plant only found in a small number of locations in Surrey and Hampshire.
In the past 30 years, the population of Gingerbread Sedge at Lakeside has increased ten-fold. This is thanks to careful stewardship of the area.
Gingerbread Sedge is one of more than 400 plant species thriving at the reserve. This reflects the site's importance for local biodiversity.
Cllr Angela Goodwin, Lead Councillor for Environment and Sustainability at Guildford Borough Council, said:
"This award is a real testament to the passion and perseverance of our Parks and Countryside team. For decades they've worked quietly, skilfully and often in challenging conditions to protect the rare and remarkable wildlife that makes places like Lakeside so special.
"Seeing the Gingerbread Sedge make such an extraordinary recovery isn't just a botanical success, it's a story of commitment, teamwork and genuine care for our natural heritage.
"Their dedication means future generations will be able to enjoy thriving wetland habitats and experience the same sense of wonder that residents and visitors feel today. I'm incredibly proud of what has been achieved at Lakeside and delighted that this long-term effort is being recognised."
Maintaining the right conditions for rare plants and wildlife is a vital part of our work across wetland habitats. This includes:
- Designated Local Nature Reserves
- Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
- Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI)
Key to this success is a combination of:
- Targeted grazing to naturally manage vegetation
- Partnership working with environmental organisations
- Specialist ecological expertise and equipment
- Collaborative species recovery projects, including the reintroduction of water voles
These long-term conservation practices ensure that wetland habitats remain healthy, diverse and resilient.
Find out more about Lakeside Nature Reserve and how to visit on our website.
Published on: 20 March 2026.