This week saw the start on site of the Reedbed project. The first thing that has happened has been vegetation clearance. This was done carefully, using a contractor who specialises in clearing vegetation for conservation projects (for example, clearing scrub from chalk grassland sites). The work involved use of a large tractor and flail, which cut the vegetation, from the centre outwards, and left the cuttings in rows. This will then be removed by bailing, and will be composted off site.

Harris fencing has been erected, so that the works site is secure and safe, which will temporarily exclude public access to these areas, while the works take place.

Earth works will begin shortly, in order to shape the banks and ditches, which will form the layout of the reedbed shape.

Some tree removal will be taking place, within the area that is fenced. This will involve removal of some willows, and hawthorns. The wood will be cut, and stacked on site, to create log piles which are great havens for reptiles, amphibians and other wildlife. The branches of these trees will be chipped, and used on footpaths throughout the rest of the Railway Land, where they become wet and muddy.

The existing ditch, although practically dry at the moment, will be connected to the new ditches, to allow movement of any wildlife into the new ditches.

week two -->