The former game keeper's cottage, a picturesque stone building nestled in the heart of Anglesey's woodland, is set to become a pivotal hub for red squirrel conservation. This unique property, once a filming location for the movie Anemone starring Daniel Day-Lewis, is now at the center of an ambitious plan to protect the island's precious red squirrel population. The cottage, with its surrounding woodland setting, played a crucial role in the movie's production, adding an authentic touch to the narrative. Now, it will serve a different purpose, becoming a sanctuary for these endangered creatures.
The planning application, submitted by Dr. Craig Shuttleworth, proposes a transformative project that goes beyond mere aesthetics. The cottage will be converted into a storage facility, housing essential biological records, equipment, and providing working space for conservation efforts. The existing pig-sty will be transformed into a bat roost, contributing to the overall ecological balance. This initiative is a testament to the applicant's dedication to conservation, as Shuttleworth has been actively managing red squirrel and pine marten conservation on Anglesey since 1997.
The proposal highlights the critical status of red squirrels in Wales, facing threats from habitat loss, competition with invasive grey squirrels, and disease. Pine martens, native predators, are recognized for their role in controlling grey squirrel populations. The site's central location in the Llansadwrn to Beaumaris area makes it an ideal spot to combat grey squirrel incursions, with 60 grey squirrels removed since February 2024. The Victorian railway carriage, a unique feature, will remain unaffected, providing shelter for bats during their nocturnal activities.
The cottage's historical context adds depth to the project. It was once occupied by a game keeper, and the vehicular access from the B5019 remains intact. The planning submission emphasizes the need for a hard-standing area and a path leading to the cottage, ensuring easy access for conservation activities. The proposed natural slate roof, timber fascia windows, and conservation-type rooflights pay homage to the cottage's past while adapting it for its new ecological purpose.
This initiative is a significant step towards preserving Anglesey's natural heritage. By converting a former filming location into a conservation hub, the project not only safeguards the red squirrel population but also educates and inspires the public. It serves as a reminder that even the most unexpected places can become catalysts for positive change, blending entertainment and conservation seamlessly.
