Working Together to Improve Norfolk's Wildlife
Access
Post-code: NR25 6PE
What3Words: limits.stickler.united
OS Map Reference: TG 139 408
Directions: The site is accessed from the minor road, north of the village of West Beckham, close to the junction with the A148
Parking: There is no dedicated parking. Park with care on Sheringham Road
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome. Please keep to the paths.
Accessibility: The site is accessed via a pedestrian gate which is on a raised verge. The paths are fairly level. However, as this is a natural site there are inevitably some uneven patches and tree roots etc. In wet weather the paths may be slippery and muddy.
Habitat
The site is open woodland, including a number of mature Oaks, with areas of scrub and Bracken and dense leaf litter in places. Some natural regeneration is occurring. A circular path runs around the site providing public access with a bench and picnic table provided. Informal access points to adjacent houses exist along the south-western boundary.
Habitat Management
The site had largely been unmanaged until recently, when areas of scrub and bracken were cleared, the path extended and tree work and gapping-up undertaken. Felbeck Trust subsequently took over the management of the site in 2019.
Whilst West Beckham Green does not appear to hold flora or fauna which is particularly rare, it nonetheless represents an important 'wildlife oasis in an agricultural green desert’ – places for wildlife to feed, breed and shelter. It is also a valuable public amenity space where visitors can enjoy nature at close-quarters – improving awareness, health and well-being.
What have we achieved?
Improved boundary hedges through a combination of laying and gapping-up – protecting the site from prevailing weather and providing important nesting sites for farmland birds
Maintenance of paths
Erection and maintenance of bird-boxes and bat-boxes at both sites
What are our future plans?
Management of any temporary standing water, damp ditches, dew-pond, etc., potentially create artificial drinking pools
Erect relevant interpretive signage, subject to funding and any approvals
Limited selective felling and re-planting with native species to diversify the woodland mix and improve age succession
