Management Plan 2017 2022 - Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve
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Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve Management Plan 2017 - 2022
Contents
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 5
Harpenden Town Council ..................................................................................................................... 5
Batford Springs Volunteers .................................................................................................................. 5
Site Description ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Upper Lea Catchment Partnership ...................................................................................................... 8
Historical Context .................................................................................................................................. 8
Habitats................................................................................................................................................... 9
Buildings .............................................................................................................................................. 10
Budgets ................................................................................................................................................ 10
Management Plan – Key Themes ....................................................................................................... 11
Management Plan – Key Development Projects .............................................................................. 12
AN ACCESSIBLE PLACE ....................................................................................... 13
Getting to and around the site ........................................................................................................... 12
Accessing infromation on-site ........................................................................................................... 13
Dog walkers ......................................................................................................................................... 13
Key actions .......................................................................................................................................... 14
HEALTHY, SAFE AND SECURE ............................................................................ 16
Personal Safety .................................................................................................................................... 16
Policing ................................................................................................................................................. 16
Dog Fouling .......................................................................................................................................... 16
Water Safety ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 16
Tree Safety ........................................................................................................................................... 16
Key Actions .......................................................................................................................................... 18
CLEAN AND WELL MAINTAINED .......................................................................... 19
Grounds Maintenance ......................................................................................................................... 19
Key Actions .......................................................................................................................................... 19
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY .................................................................... 20
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Energy and natural resources ............................................................................................................ 20
Peat and pesticides ............................................................................................................................. 20
Removal of non-native invasive species .......................................................................................... 19
Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust .................................................................................................... 20
Waste Management ............................................................................................................................. 21
Monitoring and surveying................................................................................................................... 21
Key Actions .......................................................................................................................................... 22
CONSERVATION AND HERITAGE ........................................................................ 23
Restoration of the freshwater springs .............................................................................................. 24
Restoration of the springs to their full capacity .............................................................................. 24
Repair of collapses in the stream beds ............................................................................................. 24
The removal of silt in the stream bed and bank clearance works............................................................. 24
Thinning/removal of trees and overhanging branches ................................................................... 25
Management of the wet woodland ..................................................................................................... 25
Management of the meadows ............................................................................................................ 26
Creation of a new reed fen habitat ..................................................................................................... 27
Key Actions .......................................................................................................................................... 28
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT................................................................................. 30
Batford Springs Volunteers ................................................................................................................ 30
Events ................................................................................................................................................... 30
Key Actions .......................................................................................................................................... 30
MARKETING AND PROMOTION ............................................................................ 31
Leaflet ................................................................................................................................................... 31
Website ................................................................................................................................................. 31
Social media ......................................................................................................................................... 32
Forum.................................................................................................................................................... 32
Posters.................................................................................................................................................. 32
Key Actions .......................................................................................................................................... 32
APPENDIX A - HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
................................................................................................................................. 34
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Line of reporting to Town Clerk ......................................................................................................... 34
Business & Community Services function ....................................................................................... 35
Finance & Internal Operations Function ........................................................................................... 36
Environment Committee Terms of Reference .................................................................................. 37
APPENDIX B – BATFORD SPRINGS VOLUNTEERS CONSTITUTION ................ 38
APPENDIX C – JOHN O’CONNER ST ALBANS CONTRACT ORGANISATIONAL
STRUCTURE ........................................................................................................... 31
APPENDIX D – TARGETS, FACTORS AND SPECIFICATION FOR MANAGEMENT
OF THE KEY FEATURES ........................................................................................ 33
APPENDIX E – ADDITIONAL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS……………………… 38
4
Introduction
Harpenden Town Council recognises its responsibility to manage Batford Springs
Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and the challenges this can present. Batford Springs is
a 15 acre site that was designated a local nature reserve for the existence of the rare
spring-fed freshwater habitat as well as ancient meadow, reedbed and wet woodland.
The overall aim of the Management Plan is to guide any action taken to ensure the
nature reserve continues to thrive and be enjoyed by a variety of users.
Harpenden Town Council
Harpenden Town Council was created in 1974 following the re-organisation of local
government and the disbanding of Harpenden Urban District Council. Harpenden is
the largest parish in the St Albans District with a population of over 30,000
represented by 16 Councillors.
The Town Clerk leads the work of the council alongside a team of 14 officers. This
Town Council is split into three functions which collectively implement the Council’s
business plan, and policies which comply with government legislation and our
statutory duties.
Matters concerning Batford Springs Nature Reserve are overseen by the Town
Council’s Environment Committee. This committee meets 6 times a year and
includes seven Town Councillors.
Further details of the Town Council functions and our organisational chart can be
found in Appendix A.
Batford Springs Volunteers
The Batford Springs Volunteers (formally the Upper Lea Valley Group - ULVG),
maintain and manage the majority of the reserve on behalf of the Town Council. The
ULVG was founded in 1972 to create the first section of what later became the long
distance path along the River Lea. It performed major works in its early years,
including renovation of weirs and sluices, creation of stepping stones and building of
pedestrian bridges.
In 2010, the ULVG changed its name to become the Batford Springs Volunteers
(BSV), which flourished as an active conservation group, working to conserve and
preserve the habitats and species on the nature reserve. Further details of the
group’s constitution can be viewed in Appendix B.
The Batford Spring Volunteers wrote a 10-year management plan, 2013-2022, which
has been incorporated into this document and the group continues to drive the
conservation management and site improvement works on behalf of the Council.
The Batford Springs Volunteers run an open to all work party at the reserve on the
first Sunday of every month. Work objectives for these sessions are set at a monthly
planning meeting that is attended by Members of the Batford Springs Volunteer
Management Committee.
5
The volunteers undertake routine maintenance and species recording. The work can
include special projects such as strengthening the river bank, laying hedges,
installing bird boxes and creating new paths.
Whenever practical, the majority of the conservation and maintenance work is
undertaken by the BSV team. However, contractors are also used where specialist
skills and equipment are required.
The Batford Spring Volunteers have a panel of advisors who are contacted and met
with on an ad hoc basis. Members of the Advisory panel include:
Ian Denholm (Botanist, Botanical Society of the Britain & Ireland)
Tim Hill (Conservation Manager, Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust)
Agneta Burton (Botanist, formally working at the University of Hertfordshire)
Helen Coleman (Technical information)
John Davies (Ornithologist)
Trevor James (Naturalist, British Naturalist Association)
Lauren Billington (Environment Agency)
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Site Description
Harpenden is situated in north Hertfordshire between the city of St Albans and Luton.
The reserve lies at the northern end of Station Road (B652), between Station Road
and the Lower Luton Road and stretches all the way to the junction of Piggottshill Hill
and Marquis Lane. The boundary of the reserve is shown in orange in the map
above.
Batford Springs LNR is in an urban environment and is almost entirely surrounded by
housing and roads. One public footpath, number 24, crosses the site and a children’s
play area is located in the central section. There are at least 6 schools within a 500m
distance.
In the centre of the reserve are two sets of stepping stones, one crossing a chalk
stream and the other the river. The original earth bank that once held back the mill
pond now has a modern sluice gate at its centre. Towards the southern end of the
reserve there is an old ford across the river.
The River Lea with its riverside walk flows through the site. Harpenden Town Council
is considered the riparian landowner at various points throughout the reserve and as
such has a responsibility to protect and improve the water course for the benefit of
future generations. The Town Council uses the Environment Agency document
‘Living on the Edge’ as a guide to the rights and responsibilities in respect of the
River Lea across the site.
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Upper Lea Catchment Partnership
A Catchment Based Approach to river management was piloted by Defra in 2012 and
launched nationally in 2013. The aim was to establish catchment partnerships formed
of local people, landowners and statutory bodies that work collectively across all river
catchments in England.
The River Lea through Batford Springs LNR is part of the Upper Lea Catchment. A
partnership for this region was formed in 2014 and meets three times a year to
review management progress along the Lea and discuss future projects; more
informal meetings take place more regularly. Representatives from both Batford
Springs Volunteers and Harpenden Town Council attend these meetings and are
committed to working to improve the Upper Lea for people and for wildlife.
Projects that the partnership are working towards can be viewed on the partnership
website - www.riverleacatchment.org.uk/index.php/upper-lea-home
Historical Context
Batford Springs LNR is based on a former watercress farm. In 1830 five boreholes
were drilled to provide a constant flow of water from the aquifer below to feed the
farm. The resulting chalk stream is a rarity, with only 200 in the world. The streams
were last commercially farmed in 1950.
The land was originally owned by Harpenden Urban District Council and then in 1974
came under the newly created St Albans District Council. In 2012, Batford Springs
LNR was devolved back from the District Council into the ownership of Harpenden
Town Council.
In January 2015, Harpenden Town Council purchased Marquis Meadow, a 5 acre
field adjacent to the reserve. In 2016, this new piece of land was formally included
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within the reserve and increased the size of the LNR by 50%, adding around half a
kilometre of river bank.
Habitats
There are a number distinct and different wildlife habitats on the reserve:
Freshwater springs, streams and ponds, a legacy from the watercress farm.
This comparatively rare habitat supports a variety of flora and fauna which
thrives in the constant temperature of the pure, cool spring water.
Ancient meadow, an endangered and declining habitat. In former times both
banks of the Lea at this location would have been pasture.
Reedbed, in rapid decline in Hertfordshire.
Damp woodland, a relatively rare habitat capable of supporting a wide range
of shade and water loving flora and fauna.
Buildings
The Batford Springs Volunteers (BSV) have a simple one story building along Lower
Luton Road that is used as the headquarters of the organisation. In December 2013,
a tree fell on the roof of the building and the building was subsequently condemned.
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Following discussions with the owners, St. Albans District Council, it was agreed to
transfer the asset to Harpenden Town Council.
It is proposed that the existing building will be demolished and a new purpose built
one be developed in its place. Harpenden Town Council wish to provide a modern,
bespoke facility for the Batford Springs Volunteers that will enable the volunteers to
continue their work and support future volunteers, in addition to supporting
educational facilities.
Plans for the new building are that it would be located in a similar position to the
existing one although it will extend further back into the site. It will remain a single
story so that it fits comfortably within the street scene and maintains the views into
the nature reserve beyond the houses on the other side of the road.
A meeting room will be located at the front of the building which will provide direct
access and views on to the street creating a shop front for the work undertaken by
volunteers. A small kitchen area, accessible WC, boot room and an internal store will
also be provided.
It is hoped that planning permissions will be in place and work completed by
September 2017. A temporary storage unit is housing tools and equipment belonging
to BSV’s until the building is finished.
Budgets
All budgets are approved at the relevant Council Committee meeting.
Draft
BSLNR Actual Budget budget
2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018
Repairs and Maintenance 2,500 2,500 2,500
Tree Works 1,000 1,000 1,000
BSV - SLA 1,000 1,500 1,500
Marquis Lane – Extension works 0 3,800 3,800
Net Expenditure 4,500 8,800 8,800
In addition to the budget set out before, the Town Council also utilises other general
budgets to support the management of the reserve. This includes:
Tree works met from the Commons and Greens tree budget 2015/2016.
Budgets for capital projects such as the HQ build.
Cost for new path in Marquis Meadow met through a Parish Paths Partnership
grant and a reserves budget.
The Batford Springs Volunteers are also key in raising funds for works. So far this
year, they have successfully been awarded £2K from Aviva to trial repair some of the
10collapsed stream beds along the chalk stream. In addition, they receive an annual
donation of £1K from a local commercial organisation.
Management Plan - Key Themes
The sections below set out the key themes that form the objectives for Batford
Springs Local Nature Reserve. Under each theme are set out the actions that will be
undertaken to maintain and develop it further over the next 4 years. The objectives
and actions will be reviewed and refreshed each year. All actions are set out in the
action plan in Appendix D.
The key themes are:
1. An Accessible Place
2. Healthy, Safe and Secure
3. Clean and well-maintained
4. Sustainable Environment
5. Conservation and Heritage
6. Community Involvement
In delivering this management plan Harpenden Town Council works closely with key
partners such as Batford Springs Volunteers, The Environment Agency and Herts
and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.
QuickTime™ and a
decompressor
are needed to see this picture.
11Management Plan – Key Development Projects
There are several key development projects proposed for the nature reserve over the
next 3 years.
The following future activity is referenced throughout the management plan and is
listed here in order of priority and proposed completion date.
A new HQ building for the Batford Springs Volunteers (p10 – Sep 2017)
Restoration of the chalk stream habitat (p24-27, April 2018)
Creation of a reedfen habitat (p29-30, April 2018)
Creation of a visitor boardwalk in the central wet woodland (p15, April 2019)
Design and installation of new interpretation boards (p15, Sep 2019)
An all-weather all ability surface applied to existing un-surfaced paths (p14,
April 2020)
It is estimated that the total cost for delivering these projects will be £150k. Money for
development projects is raised through Town Council budgets and by the Batford
Springs Volunteers through grants, donations and sponsorship. In some instances,
organisations like Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust may also apply for grant funding
on behalf of the reserve. Funding for each specific project is detailed in Appendix D.
12An Accessible Place
We will ensure that the nature reserve is accessible and welcoming to all potential
visitors, improving the overall quality of the reserve and opening up access to all.
Getting to and around the site
The reserve is open to the public at all times.
Whether travelling by road, rail, bus, bicycle or on foot, Batford Springs LNR is
accessible by all methods. There is a free public car park at the junction of Marquis
Lane and Station Road and further parking along Marquis Lane and Lower Luton
Road. The train station is a 20 minute walk away and buses 620, 366, and 636 pass
and stop around the reserve.
There are numerous entrances on to the site from Station Road, Lower Luton Road,
Crabtree Lane and Marquis Lane.
In January 2015, the Batford Springs LNR was extended with the purchase of land in
Marquis Lane. This land runs from the corner of Marquis Lane, eastwards to the
bottom of Piggotshill Lane. There was no defined access through the meadow, with
people creating their own path along the course of the river and the long grass. A
fully accessible all-weather path and two timber mobility kissing gates have now been
installed to direct foot fall.
Further prepared pathways can be found by the children’s play area and on the west
to east stretch of footpath 24, however, all other paths are unsurfaced and rough
terrain. It is proposed that all-weather surfacing be applied on these unsurfaced
areas over the next few years.
All existing pathways and bridges are checked weekly by the HTC Maintenance
Team.
In addition to improving access on existing pathways it is proposed to build a 250m
raised boardwalk from the central footbridge through an area of damp woodland in
the middle of the reserve. The boardwalk would connect back to the meadow on the
13north of the reserve via a bridge. This central section of damp woodland is not
currently accessible so the boardwalk will enable visitors to enjoy an additional
habitat while offering new views of the River Lea and the chalk stream. The design
and route of this boardwalk will be such to minimise the impact on local wildlife.
Design features will include:
A scrub divide between the chalk stream edge and the boardwalk
The boardwalk will be raised to allow passage for wildlife and water
underneath.
An integrated handrail with mesh on the lower half will contain people and
dogs while on the boardwalk
A non-meandering route through the section to allow refuge for wildlife
Maintaining a distance greater than 8m from the bank of the river
Gates in the rail system are required to allow BSV and contractors access into
the wet woodland.
Accessing information on-site
There is one notice board on Station Road at the top of the public footpath. This
board displays the following information:
Contact details for the Town Council and local Police Safer Neighbourhood
Teams.
Posters advertising local events and activities.
Information on getting involved with volunteering.
There are currently 6 information boards around half of the site (excluding Marquis
Meadow) that require updating to include the additional 5 acres of land purchased in
2015.
14Dog walkers
Dogs and their owners are welcome on the reserve under the following conditions:
Dogs should be kept under control at all times. If the park is busy or children
are playing, we encourage dog owners to keep dogs on a lead
All dog faeces should be disposed of in the dog litter bags provided and
deposited in the dog litter bins
Dogs should be discouraged from entering the pond.
There are five dog bins located across the reserve:
On Marquis Lane at the top of footpath 24, near Station Road
On footpath 24 by the picnic tables
At the end of footpath 24 at Crabtree Lane.
By the kissing gate at the entrance on to the reserve from All Saints Church,
Station Road.
Entrance on to Marquis Meadow at the bottom of Piggotshill Lane.
All of these bins are emptied on Mondays and Fridays by grounds maintenance
contractors.
Key Actions
Regularly update information on the notice board (weekly)
Regularly inspect infrastructure including bridges and paths (weekly)
Empty bins (dog bins on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays)
Design and install new interpretation boards providing information about the
site (by September 2019)
Creation of a visitor boardwalk in the central wooded area (complete by April
2019)
Apply an all-weather, all ability surface on all existing unsurfaced paths
(complete by April 2020)
15Healthy, Safe and Secure
We will work with our employees, stakeholders, volunteers and contractors in
developing work practices, facilities and action that promote safety for all in and
around Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve.
The management of H&S across the site relies upon numerous processes and
procedures, including the following:
Risk and COSHH assessments
Safety training details of staff (including contractors)
Accident or near miss reporting systems
Safety inspections
Testing of equipment for vibration related issues
PAT testing of electrical equipment
Independent audit and inspection
Health and Safety is given a very high priority in all of our open spaces and is
formalised through the Town Council’s Risk Management Strategy which includes
consideration of matters on Batford Springs LNR.
The safety of the volunteers, staff and public is paramount. Council officers complete
risk assessments which are regularly updated and qualified personnel carry out
safety audits and inspections at regular intervals such as weekly checks on the
infrastructure on the reserve.
The Batford Springs Volunteers are covered by their own pubic liability insurance to
carry out practical management tasks on site. All of their activities are thoroughly risk
assessed, copies of which are made available to the town council on request.
Personal Safety
The park is patrolled at least once a day by either council staff or grounds
maintenance contractors and in all weathers by foot. Council staff are easily
recognisable by means of a staff uniform and are first aid trained. Any issues
identified during the patrols such as issues with health and safety or anti-social
behaviour are reported to the relevant authority.
Policing
The Town Council works closely with the local Neighbourhood Police Team who
patrol through Batford Springs LNR weekly. Regular meetings are held with the
Neighbourhood Sergeant to discuss any issues arising in Harpenden such as people
creating disturbance, unauthorised vehicles, special community events etc.
Contact numbers for the Town Council, groundworks contractors and local police are
displayed on a notice board on Station Road.
16Dog Fouling
The Town Council promotes responsible dog ownership and control. Dog owners
are encouraged to pick up after their dog in the nature reserve. The Town Council
provide dog litter bins across the reserve.
Water safety
In February 2017, RoSPA conducted a Water Safety Review on Batford Springs LNR
by the request of the council. The inspection highlighted an increased risk in the
middle sections of the reserve from the central bridge downstream to the stepping
stones. This is due to the encroachment of people to the waterside and the nature of
the structures present such as the footbridge and stepping stones. A set of 10
recommendations have been made which are ranked from high to medium priority.
All recommendations will be considered and incorporated into work programmes
from July 2017 onwards.
Two signs warning of ‘dangerous currents’ and throw lines are in place either side of
the weir. These are inspected by the HTC Maintenance Team on a weekly basis.
Tree Safety
Batford Springs LNR is home to a variety of tree species. There are no trees with
Tree Preservation Orders on the reserve.
Any tree work carried out must be in accordance with the Harpenden Town Council
Tree Policy. It should be noted that tree work will generally not be carried out for
reasons such as the following:
Loss of light, TV reception or views due to growing trees within the reserve.
17 Natural occurrences that do not pose a health and safety risk such as falling
leaves, fruit, flowers, bird droppings or honeydew
Branches overhanging a property, unless they pose a health and safety risk.
A full health and safety inspection of all the trees on the reserve is scheduled for
March 2017. This inspection will include re-tagging of all trees for ease of
identification, digital plotting on to a map and a report of any necessary 1, 2 or 3
priority works.
Key Actions
Review key risk assessments (annually)
Review key policies: pesticides, COSSH and tree policy (annually).
Regular Joint Agency Group meetings (quarterly)
Regular Corporate Risk Management meetings (quarterly)
Incorporate RoSPA recommendations into work programmes (by July 2017)
Monitor condition of infrastructure such as seats, benches, paths, posts, safety
features and railings (weekly)
18Clean and Well Maintained
We will work to ensure that the nature reserve is litter free and the recreational grass
is well maintained.
Grounds Maintenance
Harpenden Town Council in partnership with St Albans District Council and
Sandridge Parish Council employs a CHAS accredited (Contractors Health and
Safety Assessment Scheme) groundwork contractor, John O’Conner, to undertake
the majority of work in the Town’s green spaces (See Appendix C for contract
organisational structure).
The groundwork contractors are recognisable by means of a uniform/PPE wear and
ID badges. Vehicles are all clearly branded.
Two full time employees help keep Batford Springs LNR looking in good order.
Monthly meetings are held with representatives from all the councils plus the contract
managers and supervisors to discuss current work and any outstanding or new
items. A dedicated customer care line is also available for members of the public to
use to report any queries about the aspect of grounds maintenance. The telephone
number is clearly displayed on the notice board in the entrance to the park.
Key Actions
Litter picking – performance item. The Grounds Maintenance Team are
responsible for litter picking as and when required and must review daily.
Keep recreational grass short – performance item. The Grounds Maintenance
Team are responsible for cutting the grass as and when required and must
review bi-weekly.
Strim around pathways and benches (once every two weeks in the growing
season)
Empty the litter and dog bins (three times a week in the winter months/daily in
the summer)
Regular meetings with the grounds maintenance contractor (monthly)
19Environmental Sustainability
The Council is committed to promoting sustainable policies that strive to improve
Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve and conserve energy and natural resources
where possible.
Energy and natural resources
As part of their contract with the Town Council, the groundworks contractors have a
commitment to;
Make the most efficient use of energy
Source alternative energy supplies where possible
Minimise pollution
Avoid waste and promote conservation, reuse and recycling of resources
Avoid the purchase of tropical hardwoods and give preference to Forest
Stewardship Council trademark products
Promote environmental awareness amongst staff, suppliers and sub-
contractors
Promote the purchase of goods and services locally produced and
‘environmentally friendly’ where possible
John O’Conner record and review all energy used in its buildings annually and
compares these results with previous years to allow for budget setting for the
following year. The supply of electricity is sought from a green provider and a small
wind turbine scheme is being investigated for use at the St Albans depot.
All the contractors’ vehicles run on greener diesel reducing vehicles sulphur
emissions by 90%.
Peat and pesticides
The Town Council is committed to using a peat-reduced mix (65% peat) and strives
to further reduce the peat content in years to come.
The Town Council refrains from using pesticides unless considered absolutely
necessary and all criteria set out in the Pesticide Policy are met. The Maintenance
Officer is both PA1 and PA6 qualified. The Town Council’s Pesticide Policy can be
viewed as a supporting document to the management plan.
Removal of non-native invasive species
Removal of all non-native invasive species on site is done so in accordance with the
Town Council Policy. Control of wetland non-native species follows the guidance set
out by the Environment Agency in 2010 - Managing invasive non-native plants in or
near fresh water. This includes specific guidance on Japanese Knotweed, Giant
Hogweed and Himalayan Balsam. Russian Comfrey is also a major problem on the
reserve. The Town Council’s policy can be viewed as a supporting document to the
management plan.
20Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust
Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust (HMWT) is part of the national movement of 47
county Wildlife Trusts across the United Kingdom. With 44 nature reserves covering
1,900 acres, from beautiful woodlands and wetlands to rare patches of heath and
orchard. HMWT support and advise BSV and the Town Council on the management
of habitats on the reserve to promote the best outcome for local wildlife.
From April 2017 onwards, the Town Council will have a dedicated People and
Wildlife Officer working 3 days a week who will help to manage, protect and improve
areas to benefit local wildlife.
Waste Management
The groundwork contractors and Town Council use bin bags made from 100%
recycled material.
All green waste arisings from shrub prunings and hedge cuttings are chipped,
composted down locally, taken to an external recycling plant or burnt on site.
The Town Council regularly hires skips to store mixed waste collected from general
everyday activities or specific events. The skip company is a fully licenced
(Environment Agency) waste carrier. All waste goes to Bishops Waste Transfer
station in Hemel Hempstead where they are achieving an 87% recovery rate.
Monitoring and surveying
Biological surveying is essential for supporting and directing future management
plans.
Species that are currently being monitored by BSV include:
Butterflies. Weekly surveys are carried out by volunteers over a 26 week
period from April to October. Results to Butterfly Conservation.
Riverfly monitoring in the River Lea carried out by the volunteers. Results to
Herts Environmental Record Centre (HERC).
Bi-annual flora survey conducted by BSV. Results to HERC.
Lichens every 2 years. Results to HERC.
Bird surveys monthly by the local RSPB bird group. Results to HERC.
Species to consider monitoring:
Bats – a priority given the need for tree management work.
Invertebrates – butterflies, moths, beetles, grasshoppers and crickets. Of
particular interest would be those associated with the water and with the newly
acquired Marquis Meadow. In addition, monitoring the aquatic invertebrates in
the chalk stream.
21 Small mammals – Rodentia and Insectivora. It would be useful to give baseline
information about the small mammals using the reserve, covering all habitat
areas on the site.
Key Actions
Scrub clearance works carried out between October to March, unless
absolutely necessary, to avoid the breeding season (BSV work parties).
Review key policies: pesticides, management of non-native invasive species
(annually)
Regularly meet grounds maintenance contractor
Set up a schedule of surveying to gather information about flora/fauna found
on the reserve (July 2017)
Seek advice and guidance from Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust to manage,
protect and improve areas to benefit local wildlife.
22Conservation and Heritage
The Council aims to protect, conserve and where appropriate enhance the historic
aspects of the nature reserve and to take account of distinctive histories of its
component parts.
The following table lists the important features of Batford Springs LNR and identifies
the key drivers for management. BSV are key in providing the vision for and
implementation of this aspect of the site’s management.
Important feature Why?
Chalk stream The prime habitat on the reserve is the network of six
functioning freshwater springs feeding some 500m of
streams. In 1950 the farms ceased production and for two
decades the site was totally abandoned. A period of
restoration followed but no specific restoration work was
carried out on the springs and streams. As a result, the
stream bed is compromised in various locations, the channel
is overshadowed by vegetation and a large amount of silt has
built up on the stream bed. Full restoration of the springs and
streams is now needed to create an adequate and constant
flow of fresh water along the network.
Freshwater springs and streams are a rare and diminishing
habitat. Only 120 miles exist in the world and 80% of these
are in England. The complex at Batford is of particular interest
in that virtually no surface water feeds into the streams.
Key species: a range of flora and fauna, namely aquatic
invertebrates, amphibians and reptiles many of which are
intolerant to pollutants.
Wet woodland Wet woodland provides vital cover and breeding areas for
birds, amphibians and reptiles and is one of the rarest
woodland habitats in the UK.
Such habitat may get overtaken by trees so it is necessary to
control the spread of wet woodland and create structural
diversity.
A key driver for management will be to open up the area of
damp woodland to visitors by means of a 250m boardwalk.
Key species: extremely rich in insects supporting a large
number of species such as beetle. Dead wood associated
with wet woodland provides a specialist habitat not found in
dry woodland.
Meadow In former times both banks of the River Lea at this site would
have been pasture. There were five active water mills
between East Hyde and Wheathampstead. The main activity
23in the valley was growing cereals to provide the staple food –
bread. Now two largish stretches of meadow exist.
Management by mowing is essential to maintain the structure,
balance and diversity in grassland. Without management,
grassland becomes course and rank, loses both diversity and
interest and will eventually turn to scrub or woodland.
The character and composition of the meadows will continue
to change with time. Eventually a relatively stable community
will develop, the balance of which will reflect management.
All the meadows will be managed with a mid-summer haycut
with all arisings removed after cutting. An autumn mow may
also be applied in Marquis Meadow to cut any regrowth
however all mowing regimes will be reviewed based on
surveys of the plant communities.
Key species: Insects – pollinators, grasshoppers, crickets
and wildflowers.
Reedbed Reedbeds are among the most important habitats for birds in
the UK. They support species of warbler, waders and wildfowl
for breeding in spring and roosting in winter. Reedbeds are
also great for invertebrates such as damselflies and
dragonflies. Noctules and daubentons frequent reedbeds for
feeding during the summer months.
Management of the reedbed is required to prevent over-
shading and invasive growth of reeds.
Key species: wading birds, waterfowl, warblers and
invertebrates.
Restoration of the freshwater springs and streams
24The network of freshwater stream is shown as a dashed line in the map before.
The work can be divided into four elements:
The restoration of the springs to their full capacity
The repair of collapses in the stream beds
The removal of accumulated silt and debris in stream beds
Removal of unsuitable vegetation on stream beds and banks.
The thinning/removal of overhead branches and trees along the stream
banks.
The restoration of the springs to their full capacity
Through practical research and discussion with watercress farmers it was determined
that the water flow from all the springs was below what would be normal for a 10cm
diameter pipe sunk 30m into a chalk aquifer. Output was gauged around 1l/s per
spring.
A trial clearance of one spring by a qualified contractor displaced considerable
quantities of stone, silt and chalk powder and evidence of a deliberate attempt to
restrict the flow. After the procedure the water flow was estimated at 3 litres/sec, a
level almost commensurate with watercress development.
An attempt to clear another borehole revealed that the pipe was compromised and
had cracks along the funnel. The three remaining boreholes could not be located at
all under a thick layer of mud and silt.
In order to restore flow into the channels the current thinking is to drill at least 2 new
boreholes upstream in the network.
Before this is progressed a ‘Borehole Point Prognosis’ and ‘Groundwater Abstraction
Module’ have been requested from the British Geological Survey. These surveys will
provide an evaluation of the expected geological sequence beneath the chalk
streams to a depth appropriate for the pipe. In addition, the reports will evaluate the
potential of the aquifer in terms of groundwater yields, water levels and groundwater
quality to inform the best design and location for new boreholes. These reports will
be complete by the end of March 2017.
The repair of collapses in the stream beds
The collapses are in the form of a mini sinkhole full of liquid mud up to 1m deep.
Their existence creates a number of undesirable problems.
They allow spring water to soak into the ground
They form a barrier for free movement of life in the stream.
Plants which flourish in the bed cannot establish themselves in a collapsed
section.
A collapsed section is not necessarily obvious and is thus a serious hazard for
volunteers working on stream conservation.
The repair would involve removing the silt and filling the trenches with stones,
compacting and dressing with gravel.
25The removal of silt in the stream beds and bank clearance works.
With the springs running on low power for a long time there is considerable amount
of silt in most of the streams. By improving the water flow some of this will be
naturally carried away to the outflow. In some areas there will have to be physical
intervention to clear the build-up and also to fully remove invasive weeds and
unsuitable species which have taken root. With the springs restored and the stream
bed repaired it is hoped that a proportion of this work can be undertaken by volunteer
labour.
Thinning/removal of trees and overhanging branches.
Along the majority of the chalk stream network the bank is overpopulated with trees
with large portions of the stream are in permanent shade. This promotes a
community composition of shade-tolerant species and results in a lot of debris falling
into the channel. In order to maximise biodiversity and improve conditions in the
channel, management will try to create dappled sunlight conditions of a ratio of 70%
open, 30% dappled sunlight. This will be achieved through a combination of thinning
and tree removal.
Management of the wet woodland
Wet woodland shaded on the map.
A wet woodland should be allowed to regenerate naturally, and as far as possible,
should be a wild, natural and dynamic wetland system that is self-regulating. Ideally
they should require minimum human management or intervention.
It is important to try and retain as diverse a habitat as possible in order to meet the
needs of larval and adult stages of invertebrates. This means a diversity in age of
trees and openings in the canopy that will provide glades where plants can flower.
Some coppicing may be necessary to achieve a more diverse woodland structure
and to clear a path for the boardwalk. Trees in the wet woodland will be managed
according to the Town Council’s tree policy and surveyed every 5 years.
26Deadwood, both fallen and standing of all sizes, should be conserved and retained
as it provides habitat for some of the UKs rarest invertebrate species.
On-going management of the scrub layer in particular nettles will ensure open areas
are retained and a greater diversity of ground flora can establish.
Management of the meadows
Meadow areas shaded on the map
Marquis Meadow
The grassland will be managed by a cutting regime: two cuts initially, in late July and
the other at the end of November (weather depending) with cuttings removed to
reduce vigour of and seeding of false oat grass and thistles. After two years this will
be reviewed to assess the effect on species richness of the vegetation and consider
whether the summer cut could be later to allow for a longer flowering period and less
impact on the invertebrate interest of the site.
There are several large anthills on the site which need to be avoided when cutting to
prevent both damage to them and machinery. Most of these are concentrated in the
area between the central dividing bank and western hedgerow and this area will be
cut infrequently for the benefit of invertebrates, while preventing the succession of
scrub.
Ragwort and tree saplings can be controlled by hand pulling/cutting. Himalayan
Balsam will be removed along the bank of the river, according to the Town Council’s
policy on the Removal of Non-Native Invasive Species.
27Lower Luton Road meadow plots
In 2016, areas of previous amenity grass either side of Footpath 24, close to Lower
Luton Road were left uncut until the end of August and all the arisings taken away.
The aim was to generate new habitats comprising a mixture of grasses and broad-
leaved herbaceous species to support a variety of wildlife.
Plant species present on these plots were surveyed during the summer, and as
expected after several years of intensive mowing the number of species is limited,
however, it is expected that these plots will colonise naturally over time. After two
years the annual cut will be reviewed to assess the effect on species richness of the
vegetation.
Station Road meadow area
The grassland will be managed by a cutting regime: one cut in late July with cuttings
removed. After two years this will be reviewed to assess the effect on species
richness of the vegetation. Tree saplings will be controlled by hand cutting.
Creation of a new reed fen habitat
The word fen is described somewhere that is between reedbeds and wet meadows
or wet woodland, where the water table is close to or above the surface for much of
the year. The vegetation can contain reed, but is generally shorter than in reedbeds
and includes grasses and sedges, giving views across the landscape. Fen contains
plant species that can provide abundant colour in summer.
28There is no true reedfen on the reserve as the topographical conditions are not met.
It is proposed to restore an overgrown and neglected area of semi-marsh land by
removing invasive species and shaping the area into a depression to support a reed
fen habitat.
This project will help increase the diversity of habitats and species on the reserve.
Ongoing habitat management
By far the most time consuming task for BSV is dealing with scrub encroachment;
ongoing scrub clearance and removal of non-native invasive species. This ensures
the growth of habitat specific species in all habitats found on the reserve and helps to
maintain boundaries and successional points between habitats. The amount of work
required in any year varies considerably with the seasons and weather conditions.
Key Actions
Restoration of the freshwater springs and streams (April 2018).
Open up access to the wet woodland by means of a 250m boardwalk (April
2019).
Create a new reed fen habitat (April 2018).
Continue management of reedbed and meadow habitats according to
schedule of works.
Review Tree Management Policy (annually).
On-going maintenance and management – annual scrub clearance (Oct-Mar)
29Community Involvement
We will consult with the community to ensure that Batford Springs LNR has
appropriate information and facilities making it a good place to visit. In addition we
will support well managed events and activities on the reserve and promote it as a
place for education and learning.
Batford Springs Volunteers (BSV)
The monthly volunteering sessions provide a regular opportunity for members of the
local community to get involved with practical management on the site. There are
also opportunities throughout the spring and summer to undertake butterfly surveys.
Events
For some years BSV have worked with the local community on a relatively informal
basis. This includes providing guided works, ad-hoc sessions with local schools and
recruiting new volunteers. A Reserve Ramble is led annually by BSV that give local
residence the opportunity to learn about the reserve and how it is managed.
Annual ‘Larks in the Parks’ and ‘Play in the Park’ events run by St Albans District
Council are hosted at Batford Springs LNR. These are free family event with
storytelling, arts and crafts, music workshops and sports activities.
From April 2017 onwards, Harpenden Town Council will be employing a part time
People and Wildlife Officer to develop and deliver community engagement and
education projects in Harpenden’s green spaces, including Batford Springs LNR.
Their work will support that done by the BSVs and involve:
Raising awareness of the natural resources in Harpenden and encouraging
participation in conservation
Creating a broader range of volunteering opportunities for a wider audience
Increasing opportunities for local schools to experience more out of the
classroom learning.
Attracting new audiences to Harpenden’s green spaces and its wildlife.
A full work programme based around Batford Springs LNR will be put in place once
the officer is in post.
Key Actions
Gather information on user groups (from April 2017 onwards)
Encourage more local schools to use Batford Springs LNR as a learning
resource (from April 2017 onwards)
Programme of community events throughout the year (from April 2017
onwards).
30Marketing and Promotion
We aim to increase awareness and provide information on opportunities relating to
Batford Springs LNR for both users and non-users.
Leaflet
A leaflet about Batford Springs LNR is available from the Town Council offices,
however, this leaflet does now require updating since the expansion of the reserve.
Websites
Batford Springs LNR has its own page on the Town Council’s website.
Information about the reserve can also be found on the BSVs own website
31Social media
Harpenden Town Council has its own Twitter and Facebook pages. Information
about Batford Springs LNR and its events and wildlife spectacles are updated to both
social media outlets.
Forum
Forum is a free quarterly magazine produced by the Town Council that goes to every
household in the Town. Articles about the local nature reserve feature in this.
Posters
Posters for events at the nature reserve at displayed throughout the town centre and
in the notice board on site. This notice board is replenished regularly by the BSVs.
Currently there is no regular information on reserve users in terms of numbers,
demographic, activities in the reserve and length of visit. There is currently limited
staff resource within the Town Council that can be allocated to collecting this. The
Commons and Greens Officer will look to recruit volunteers to help with a schedule of
data collection from April 2017 onwards.
Key Actions
Notice boards replenished regularly (weekly)
Council wide Communication Plan written to include Batford Springs LNR
(summer 2017). This plan will define who should be given information, when
should that information be delivered and through what channels.
Council staff to continue highlighting points of interest in the park via twitter
and social media (ad hoc basis).
Information gathered on user groups (from April 2017 onwards)
32Appendix A - Harpenden Town Council Organisational Structure
Line of reporting to Town Clerk
Planning
Town Clerk function
Central
Projects Officer Services/Mayor's
Secretary
Business & Community Finance & Internal
Services Manager Operations Manager
34Business & Community Services function
Business &
Community
Services Manager
Amenities Officer Events Officer
Planning,
Commons &
Information &
Greens Officer Maintenance Facilities Officer
Officer
Commons &
General Support Information
Greens Outreach
Assistant Officer
Officer
Caretaker
Cleaner
35Finance & Internal Operations Function
Finance & Internal
Operations
Manager
Administrative Planning & Finance Business Support
Support Officer Officer Apprentice
36Environment Committee Terms of Reference
Membership 7 Members of the Council
Matters All matters (including the preparation of a draft budget, periodic
Delegated to review of expenditure and income and fees and charges for
Committee consideration, by the Policy and Finance Committee and Council
relating to-
1. Harpenden Common and Greens – including Common
Management Plan, Grounds maintenance contracts,
Woodland Management, Negotiating Wayleaves, Fairs and
Circuses.
2. Hatching Green.
3. Lydekker Park and Car Park.
4. Community Arts and Events.
5. Farmers Market.
6. Allotments.
7. Batford Spring Local Nature Reserve.
8. Open Spaces and Play Areas – Porters Hill Park, Westfield
Recreation Ground and Marquis Lane.
9. Harpenden in Bloom.
10. Tourism.
11. Leisure and Sports - including Harpenden Common Golf
Club, Harpenden Cricket Club, Bamville Cricket Club and
Harpenden Rovers Football Club.
12. The Definitive Footpath Network.
13. Street Furniture.
14. Banner applications.
15. Consultation Documents as appropriate to the committee.
16. Negotiate devolvement of land and services from other
bodies or agencies prior to referring to Policy and Finance
Committee for budgetary agreement and to Council for
approval.
37APPENDIX B – Batford Springs Volunteers Constitution
1. Name
The name of the group shall be the 'Batford Springs Volunteers' (BSV).
Aims
• To enhance the natural quality of the area within our remit (centred around the
Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve) through active conservation work, to
the benefit of both the public and the natural environment
• To publicise the area and its amenities to Harpenden residents, including
schools and young people’s associations
• To promote and use to best effect the individual and combined skills that exist
within the Volunteers to support the Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve’s
long-term conservation plans.
Membership
Membership shall be open to any person who shares the aims of the group and has
paid any registration fee or any agreed annual membership fee. Any fees that are to
be levied in future will be agreed by a majority of members at the Annual General
Meeting.
Equal Opportunities
The activities of the group shall be conducted in such a manner that no person shall
be discriminated against on grounds of age, sexual orientation, disability, race, nor
political or religious affiliation.
Management
• The activities of the group shall be administered by a Management Committee
comprising not less than 3 and not more than 12 members elected at an
Annual General Meeting. (AGM)
• Any person wishing to stand for election to the Management Committee must
have been a member for a minimum of 3 months prior to the AGM.
• The Officers of the Committee shall be the Chairperson, Treasurer and
Secretary.
• One third of the Management Committee (rounded down to the nearest
number divisible by 3) shall retire at each AGM - but may offer themselves for
re-election.
• The maximum time that any Officer of the Committee can hold their post is 9
years. For the current Officers, the start of the 9 year period will be from 1 st
April 2007.
• The Committee shall meet at agreed intervals - and not less than once a year.
• A minimum of 3 members shall be present for a Management Committee
meeting to be valid.
• The Committee may co-opt up to 3 persons to serve on the Committee.
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