Creve Coeur a step nearer being returned to nature
CREVE Coeur has moved one step closer to being opened as a nature reserve, as the National Trust of Guernsey and the Smile for Georgie Foundation unveiled an alliance aimed at transforming the former landfill site.
After 30 years of being fenced off, plans for the four hectare site, sandwiched between Mont Cuet and L’Ancresse, are taking shape, with carefully defined areas for public enjoyment which will protect the natural habitat.
Plans include pathways, a viewing station, a picnic area, and, subject to States permission, a trim trail.
National Trust president Mike Brown said this was going to be collaboration for the people of Guernsey and the environment and biodiversity.
‘We are delighted that two local charities are able to work together in protecting and opening up an impressive expanse of island land,’ he said.
‘From the top of Creve Coeur, the islands of Alderney and Lihou can easily be seen, together with sunrise and sunset. It is an uplifting and remarkable location.’
The Smile for Georgie Foundation hope to raise £50,000 to go towards developing the site, and has announced that the majority of the proceeds from The Tour of the Roses 2023 cycling tour from St Malo to Avignon in September 2023 will contribute to the development of The Smile for Georgie Nature Reserve.
Smile for Georgie was established in memory of Georgie Le Prevost, who died in a road traffic accident in 2017, with the purpose of making a difference in the local community through small acts of kindness.
Founding trustee Jenny Le Prevost said she was looking forward to working with the trust.
‘We aim to create a balance that will allow people to enjoy the wonderful views the location has to offer whilst enjoying walking the paths and being close to nature,’ she said.
‘Those who knew Georgie will appreciate the positive contribution she made to life and the smile she had for everyone. The foundation aims to reflect her personality in all that it does. By making this contribution we will have a permanent part of the legacy, that will last long into the future.’
The two charities hope to work with La Societe, RSPB Guernsey and Trees for Life to establish protected areas and enhance the sites environment.
Ronez, which is setting up a quarry nearby, has already promised funding for pathways.
The last hurdle before work can start on the site is the transfer of the land back to the trust, who leased it to the States of Guernsey for emergency landfill in the 1990s.
Mr Brown said: ‘We anticipate the States fulfilling their contractual obligations to convey the land to the trust shortly, to ensure we can take advantage of this very generous offer.’
