The idea
We are a group of local volunteers who meet regularly with the aim of improving Toftshaw Pit Hill for nature. We will dig out the pond to stop it drying out in summer and create a reed bed to improve the water quality. We want to enable visitors of all ages to appreciate and enjoy the wildlife by constructing an accessible path, a dipping platform and two benches. We will install information panels which will show visitors the value of wildlife and explain how to pond dip safely. We hope this project will inspire local people to become more involved with the whole of the Pit Hill site and thereby foster a stronger sense of community.
What we'll deliver
- Deepen and line our pond summer 2020
- Build an accessible path summer 2020
- Construct a pond dipping platform with two benches summer 2020
- Install information panels and a noticeboard
- Run workshops for people to plant native pond and aquatic plants
- Erect a post and rail safety fence summer 2020
- Plant a reed bed summer 2020
- Provide people with the opportunities to take part in nature walks and practical activity days
Why it's a great idea
• By digging out the pond it will hold water throughout the whole
year and be a valuable wildlife habitat.
• The reed bed will allow us to improve the quality of the water
feeding into the pond.
• The new path will enable people of all ages and abilities to visit
and enjoy the pond.
• The dipping platform will allow safe access for exploring the
pond.
• The benches will allow quiet contemplation.
• The panels will provide information on pond life and explain how
to pond dip safely.
• This project will encourage more people from the local community
to enjoy the whole of the Pit Hill Nature Area and actively
contribute to its future care.
Steps to get it done
- Digging out the pond
- Creating the reed bed
- Constructing the path
- Installing the dipping platform and benches
- Design and installation of information boards
If we are over funded we will install two flights of steps leading up to the woods, build a boundary fence to protect the nature area. Improve paths around the rest of the site. Manage the woodland and plant bulbs and wild flowers.
