11 December 2011 Last updated at 09:10 ET

Leicester green area 'to alleviate flooding'

A new area of wetland in Leicester will help prevent flooding and pollution, officials have said.

Work alongside the River Soar in the Abbey Meadows area has seen new reedbeds planted and footpaths built, along with feeding areas for wildlife.

The city council said the reedbeds will help clean water coming off the A6 and the area will handle high river levels.

The project is part of a £700,000 scheme to improve the entire Soar Valley.

Deputy City Mayor Rory Palmer said: "This new wetland area shows how, with the right approach, practical solutions to real problems such as flood threat can bring about a range of additional benefits for the city.

"Through sensitive landscaping, this project will create an attractive riverside area and new wildlife habitats."