CONSERVATIONISTS have plunged in to newt-ralise a rare problem on a high-tech business site in Blackpool.

Operation Newt Rescue swung into action after a colony of specially protected great crested newts was discovered at a new £10m technology park in Bispham - holding up further development until they can be saved.

The newts, an endangered species attracting a £1,000 fine for each one killed, are being removed in a £200,000, year-long operation by specialist conservationists Landmark Environmental Services of Longridge.

The painstaking transfer of the amphibians to newly-created ponds at Marton Mere Nature Reserve and a local primary school, started this week. It involves combing the area on hands and knees, gathering frogs and toads as well.

Landmark owner Steven Miles said: "This is quite a densely-populated area from an amphibian point of view and with more and more building going on it's one of the dwindling sites on the coast where such creatures can be found. We'll be making the best efforts to ensure the amphibians are given a new start elsewhere so that they can flourish."

The technology park and its associated Blackpool north-east link road, being developed by Blackpool Challenge Partnership, are aimed at creating 500 much-needed non-tourist jobs for the area. But partnership manager Alan Cavill said once the newts had been discovered their safety became a major concern.

"This is a very rare species which is in decline and once we knew about their presence, creating a home for them to live peacefully and safely became a priority," said Mr Cavill.

"Rescuing the newts is slow, back-breaking work, but it is important to protect them and provide an environment where they can thrive."

Ponds at Marton Mere are being restored, new trees and hedges planted and amphibian hibernation areas created as part of the scheme, paid for by the town's Single Regneration Budget.

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