AN ECOLOGICAL network concentrated on Cheshire's Sandstone Ridge could attract more than £3million worth of investment and create 550 jobs over the next 20 years, according to a new feasibility study.

Residents living in parts of mid Cheshire are invited to help shape the proposed new vision, which is being led by the county council.

The main aim of the 100-page document is to help people, businesses and funding agencies improve the area for residents, wildlife and the economy.

Findings will be used by the current Sandstone Ridge ECOnet Partnership to develop a programme of projects to enable a bid to be made for Heritage Lottery Funding next year.

This could involve the creation and restoration of heathland, meres, mosses, woodland and grassland equivalent to the area of 1,100 football pitches in the Sandstone Ridge area, which at present covers 10 per cent of Cheshire.

Ideas include the creation of wildlife corridors, improved wildlife habitats, increased opportunities for residents and visitors to see and enjoy the wildlife, as well as boosting more business opportunities and rural skills.

Sites for possible inclusion are Delamere Forest and Little Budworth Common. Undertaken by the county council, the study was supported by the Northwest Regional Development Agency, Forestry Commission, local businesses and communities.

Cheshire's environment strategic panel chairman Steve Wilkinson said: "This document has uncovered the amazing potential of the Sandstone Ridge.

"An ecological network could attract more than £3million worth of new public and private investment as well as increase the additional spending of visitors, businesses and contractors.

"Over the next 20 years it could also create around 550 jobs in the rural economy in areas such as farming and tourism.

"There is an opportunity here to help realise the Cheshire and Warrington Tourism Board's vision for Cheshire in which the development of rural tourism is a key theme.

"Importantly the study has clearly demonstrated how the creation of new wildlife habitats, combined with increased opportunities for public enjoyment, could bring new money into Cheshire and to help support the rural economy."

jbrakell@guardiangrp.co.uk