Habitat management work began in the autumn of 2023.

What have we achieved?

• Creation of a network of paths, allowing access for habitat management and monitoring work 

• Construction of bridges and board walks

• Installation of a vehicular and a pedestrian gate 

• As a starting point for our habitat management plans, a programme of species monitoring has begun

• Disposal of any historical fly-tipping waste

• Removal of debris and overgrown vegetation from pond, with guidance from Norfolk Pond Project

• Dredging of ponds and ditches to improve water qualitty and create improved habitat for a more diverse range of species

• Selective felling/pruning of trees over ponds to allow light to penetrate

• We have begun to gap up the hedge around the perimeter, using appropriate local native species,

• Hedge-laying to create a to create dense hedge from the base, providing suitable nesting and sheltering sites for birds, and a wildlife corridor for mammals

• Log piles constructed from felling/coppicing to provide habitat for invertebrates

• Other felled or sawn branches left in situ to encourage fungi and invertebrates

• Brash piles created to provide habitat for mammals and birds

• Selective ivy control/removal 

  
  

What are our future plans?

• Secure boundary with post & wire fencing as necessary

• Appropriate management of existing hedgerow 

• Selective thinning or coppicing to let in light and encourage trees to regenerate, creating a succession of heights and maturity to benefit wildlife 

• Selective clearance to create grassland/wildflower area and habitat for butterflies

• Erect bird and bat boxes as appropriate

• Erect relevant interpretive signage, subject to funding and any approvals 

• Continue species monitoring programme