Southwell Town Council is committed to improving biodiversity and with this in mind we are focused on enhancing Squires and Cludd ponds, in the beautiful War Memorial Recreation Ground. Part of the watercourse begins at the natural spring at Edward Cludd pond near Southwell Minster School, and runs into the Potwell Dyke, eventually reaching Squires pond near the younger children’s play area.
The project will develop the wetland habitat, provide natural surveillance opportunities and improve public access to Squires pond. When work is complete, there will be a dipping pond platform, a bugzone pond, additional seating, owl and bat boxes and signage featuring drawings creating by children from Holy Trinity Infant’s school.
The Council sought advice from the Senior Conservation officer for Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and Newark & Sherwood District Council’s Tree Preservation Officer. On their advice to improve water quality and positively manage this woodland area, one mature tree, and several semi-mature trees will be felled and used to create log pile wildlife habitats.
However, Southwell Town Council is very conscious of the importance of trees in the mitigation of carbon emissions and, with the help of volunteers, 20 tall trees and 380 hedge plants will be/were planted along the perimeter fence of Squires pond, to strengthen this wildlife corridor. This year saw over 100 trees and 600 hedge whips planted in Froggatt’s Field. We will be giving residents 1,000 saplings to plant in their gardens as part of the Queen’s Plant a Tree for Jubilee initiative, and an oak tree will be planted in War Memorial Recreation Ground as a lasting memorial to Her Majesty in 2022.
Cllr Karen Roberts who, together with Cllr Lyn Harris, is leading the project said: “We are so lucky to have these ponds which are clearly valued by residents, as so many have freely offered advice and practical help with this project.“ Lyn added: “We hope that by developing these wildlife habitats, it will be an exciting resource for the town’s families and children “.
The Town Council apologises for any inconvenience caused during the improvement works but looks forward to seeing increased wildlife and providing learning opportunities for young and old alike in 2022.
More details and pictures here – Squires-and-Edward-Cludd-pond-for-website
Featured in Bramley newspaper January 2022
