A new coastal nature reserve and visitor experience is being planned for the Solway Firth, Scotland, under plans revealed by RSPB Scotland.

The conservation group has bought more than 150 hectares (371 acres) of saltmarsh and floodplain on the western coast of Wigtown Bay to progress the proposals. Scottish Natural Heritage contributed £200,000 towards the scheme, although an additional £525,000 is now required to allow RSPB Scotland to transform the area.

The site - an important stopping-off point for birds migrating south - is set to benefit from more wet grassland and RSPB Scotland aims to provide easy access for visitors. Dave Beaumont, regional reserves manager for south and west Scotland at RSPB Scotland, said: "We now have a fantastic opportunity to buy and protect this magical place as a vital haven for wildlife as well as a tranquil place for people to enjoy for generations to come.

"We are very grateful to SNH for their £200,000 grant, which will provide a great boost to biodiversity, tourism, economic development and environmental education in the long term for Wigtown and the surrounding area." Image: Crook of Baldoon - www.alancairnsphotography.com