The lake is home to rare species of fish and birds

Planning permission for the 17.6 acre Bassenthwaite site was granted by The Lake District National Park Authority.

It will open up a natural area of wetland at Dubworth, where wildlife and plants can thrive and footpaths and boardwalks will be created.

It is part of an ongoing project to improve the quality of water in Bassenthwaite Lake.

'Wildlife haven'

The manager of Bassenthwaite Lake Restoration Programme, John Pinder said: "The plan is to create footpaths and build boardwalks over marshland and provide interpretation to a wide audience.

"There will be opportunities for young people and communities to get involved, particularly in the building of wildlife hides."

It is hoped work on the project could start early in the New Year and it is expected to take 18 months to complete.

Mr Pinder said: "Bassenthwaite has internationally recognised wildlife, despite its problems with water quality, and is a National Nature Reserve and Special Area of Conservation.

"Dubwath wetland will give added protection and be a wildlife haven in its own right."