Community effort helps secure Local Nature Reserve status for Boz Park

Boz Park in Unsworth has officially been declared as Bury’s newest Local Nature Reserve, becoming the eighth site in the borough to receive this nationally recognised status.

The designation marks the culmination of a project developed over the past year, led by Bury Council in partnership with Natural England, local community representatives and other key stakeholders. The new LNR status acknowledges Boz’s growing importance for wildlife, nature conservation and community recreation.

Local Nature Reserves are identified through a national database coordinated by Natural England and are recognised as vital wildlife havens that offer opportunities for education, research and the informal enjoyment of nature. To achieve this designation, sites must demonstrate strong local wildlife value and offer opportunities for people to enjoy, learn about and connect with nature.

Over recent years, the site has benefited from numerous enhancements designed to boost biodiversity and improve opportunities for residents to enjoy green space. The Local Nature Reserve designation means these improvements have been formally recognised and protected.

To continue this work, Bury Council is collaborating with City of Trees and community interest company, Proffitts to further develop the site. Additional funding avenues are being explored to bring to life a range of improvement ideas raised during a local community consultation.

Paul Robinson, Green Spaces Officer, said: We’re delighted that Boz has now been recognised as a Local Nature Reserve. This designation reflects the passion and hard work of local residents, community groups and partners who have helped shape the park into a space that supports wildlife and offers real benefits for people. Protecting Boz Local Nature Reserve for future generations is an important step in strengthening Bury’s network of green spaces, and we look forward to continuing improvements with our partners and the community.”

Boz LNR now joins the borough’s seven existing Local Nature Reserves:

• Chapelfield
• Chesham Woods
• Hollins Vale
• Kirklees Valley
• Philips Park
• Redisher Wood
• Springwater Park

For more information about local nature reserves in the Bury borough visit www.bury.gov.uk/naturereserves

ENDS

Press release issued: 3 April 2026.

Picture: Boz Park.