Local Nature Reserves and green spaces

pond dipping Countryside Management Partnerships (CMPs) work with landowners and local communities to manage Local Nature Reserves and green spaces across Kent. The sites are vital ‘green lungs’ and areas where local people can experience and enjoy the natural world at close hand, bringing health, happiness and quality of life. The CMP’s role in managing these sites is ensuring future generations can benefit from what we have inherited. To this end, with the vital help of local volunteers and community groups we now have a fine network of nature reserves and green spaces where biodiversity can thrive and the public can access for a variety of outdoor uses. In some areas of Kent, local authorities have all of their green spaces managed by a local CMP.

How can CMPs help:

The type of support offered needs to be tailored to the individual Local Nature Reserve & green space, but may include:

Advice, further information and contacts
Management plans
Site surveys
Site enhancement works
Organising and running practical work days
Fund raising and grants
Establishing local interest groups and volunteers
Organising one-off events
Project management
Publicity and site interpretation

Who benefits:

Landowner (public or private ownership)
Biodiversity
Local community
Local schools & interest groups

Contact your local Countryside Management Partnership for more information.

Case Study - Barnett’s Wood Local Nature Reserve – Tunbridge Wells

volunteers Barnett’s Wood Local Nature Reserve is located on the urban edge of Southborough, it is a 10-hectare diverse site including Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland, Ancient Meadows (both marshy and neutral grassland). Barnett’s Wood LNR is managed by the Kent High Weald Partnership on behalf of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. The aim is to conserve wildlife and encourage public access. KHWP has been involved in the management of the site for over 10 years, some of the key achievements include:

Establishment of the ‘Friends of Barnett’s Wood’
Designation of the site as an LNR
Adoption of a 10 year management plan
Multiple external funding bids
Large-scale capital works programme including access for all path, fencing, site furniture, pond creation, hedge & tree planting, interpretation and signage.
Re-introduction of grazing
Self-guide leaflets for walking, education & disabled access
Environmental education equipment, downloadable pond pack & tree guide, wet workshop & outdoor classroom
Programme of site volunteer practical task days and environmental activities
Environmental Stewardship Scheme & Woodland Improvement Grant
Establishment of volunteer surveyors, wardens and stock checkers