THE globally renowned Wrens Nest Nature Reserve in Dudley will soon have a brand new wardens base, after a personal commitment from the Leader of Dudley Council.

The reserve, which is home to the 400-million year-old fossil the ‘Dudley Bug’, is in line to have a new base to replace the current rundown building that is need of repair.

Plans for the building will take shape soon and it is expected to open in 2021.

Leader of Dudley Council, councillor Patrick Harley, has confirmed money will be found to fund the project, following a similar scheme receiving the greenlight at Saltwells Nature Reserve in Netherton.

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council, said: "Wrens Nest National Nature Reserve is a fantastic asset for Dudley and is recognised internationally for its geology and natural beauty.

"We want to ensure that we act as a proper custodian for the reserve and providing a new base for our wardens and a place where visitors can see our fantastic array of fossils is evidence of our commitment."

The news was welcomed by the Friends of Wren’s Nest National Nature Reserve who work to protect the site.

John Chapple, chair of the Friends of Wrens Nest said: "This is fantastic news and we look forward to working with the council on the process of designing a new base where people from Dudley and much further afield can enjoy this amazing place on our doorstep."

Wrens Nest is world-famous for its geological importance and is visited by scientists from all over the world.