WORLD-famous environmentalist David Bellamy is lending his voice to a campaign to protect one of Gwent's most historic landscape.

Professor Bellamy was highlighting concerns about increasing development around the Gwent Levels when he opened a new educational centre at the Magor Marsh Reserve today.

He said: "I am really excited at the chance to see the wonderful Gwent Levels and delighted to support the campaign to get the true value of Wales' natural heritage fully understood, for the wildlife itself, and for the benefits it would bring to communities and the economy."

The event is being held by the Gwent Wildlife Trust, which is worried that modern agricultural practices and development plans could dramatically affect the delicate habitat.

It hopes Professor Bellamy will be able to inspire popular support for its campaign.

Steve Rogers, conservation officer with the GWT, told the Argus that the area was of the utmost importance to the local community.

He said: "The unique character of the Gwent Levels could be entirely lost. "This would be damaging to Gwent's natural heritage, which is important for tourism, recreation and the wider economy.

"A vibrant countryside is known to attract new businesses as well as being good for people's health and well-being."

Newport Council's Eastern Expansion Area plan to build 4,000 new homes near the Levels and the construction of the M4 relief road are the trust's main concerns.

But it also opposes the Gateway To Wales scheme, a proposal to build houses, industrial units and a university on the Levels near Caldicot.

The GWT claims such developments would threaten the rare wildlife, spoil the landscape and cause pollution.

"We understand the need for development in order for prosperity," said Mr Rogers. "But we would strongly encourage greater use of brownfield sites.

"Developers are too keen to use the cheaper option of building on flat, agricultural land such as the Levels."

A spokesman for the National Assembly said: "The Assembly Government is committed to the protection and conservation of native wildlife and habitats.

"Its policy states that the planning system must provide for development in a way which is consistent with sustainability principles."

Magor Councillor, John Major, also confirmed a commitment to preserving the area.

He said: "We will do all we can to ensure the Gwent Levels are protected."