Friends of 40-Acres

 

 

 

 

The land has been leased to Parish Council for at least 50yrs and it is enclosed by Bush Avenue, Hatchet Road and by the railway line from Parkway to Gypsy Patch Lane railway tunnel. This also includes a small tended area known as Royal Park. This land has been left clear of buildings because it is beneath the flight path to the airfield. It also provided fixing points for the barrage balloons in the war years. Late it was used for grazing sheep and cattle for a short time but has been unused for the last forty years or so. A small exposure of early Jurassic limestone dating back to about 200 million years ago can be seen near Hatchet Bridge. 

 

The group known as Friends of 40-Acres is hoping to maintain the area as a nature reserve. There are wildflowers, a small plantation of trees, streams and a wet area in winter for some species of birds. Buzzards, foxes and bats have been seen as well. The principal users are dog walkers, the paths are designated for pedestrians and pedal cyclists only. Motor cycles and scooters are not permitted.

 

The aim of the group is to conserve the site by keeping it clear of rubbish, by planting more wildflower, planting hazel to provide undergrowth within a small plantation, to coppice suitable trees to improve their growth. Grass will be cut at the right time of year to a suitable height to ensure the provision of cover for small animals, field voles etc.

 

The friends group is composed of entirely of volunteers (you would be most welcome to join us) tasks undertaken include litter picking, removal of Himalayan Balsam from the stream banks and the occasional trimming of brambles from the footpaths would be appreciated.