Nature

Stockbridge Meadows Nature Reserve

Stockbridge Meadows Nature reserve lies on the southwestern edge of Melbourn between Dolphin Lane and the River Mel. At approximately 5.5 hectares, the land comprises extensive areas of regenerating scrub and remnant orchard, together with rough grassland sloping down towards the river.

The northern edge of the site is marked by hedgerow and scrub, which connects to the River Mel to the west. The river meanders to form part of the southern boundary as well, whilst the east of the site is bounded by a combination of scrub and garden boundary vegetation from the adjoining properties.

Surrounded by dense undergrowth in the south of the Nature Reserve is the site of a former medieval manor house, now marked only by its moat. This is believed to be the location of the Trayles Manor House and chapel, which dates back to at least the 14th century when this land was owned by the de Trailly family.

The site is owned and maintained by Melbourn Parish Council following its hand-over by developers around 10 years ago. The nature reserve was originally created as part of the adjacent housing development. Design and survey work was conducted by landscape architects and ecologists and included identification of a number of key habitats for both flora and fauna.

A series of habitat and access improvements were undertaken in 2007 by the developers Manor Kingdom in 2007, in close association with South Cambs District Council. The works provided informal footpaths and a 60m long boardwalk, meadows, new tree and scrub planting, riverside access and new orchards.

A large badger sett is present in the south of the site, and if you search it’s easy to see signs of recent excavations. Muntjac deer are in plentiful supply, the areas of thicket/ scrub provide the dense cover generally favoured by this species.

Damp marsh and wetland areas provide ideal habitat for invertebrates and bird species such as the reed warbler. Buzzard and Red Kites can frequently been seen in the area.

The long grassland, log piles and scrub habitats present provide a range of habitats suitable for reptiles. The reptile protection area near the centre of the reserve provides basking areas and hibernation sites. Two legally protected reptile species occur. The Common Lizard and the Grass snake.

In July 2018 the Parish Council rebranded Stockbridge Meadows as a Nature reserve and resolved that policy decisions move in the direction of protecting wildlife and conservation interests. Our village wardens and contractors can regularly be seen there managing and maintaining this facility. Future maintenance plans include replenishing the orchard areas, and repairing or replacing the boardwalk, which has reached the end of its shelf-life. I do urge residents and visitors alike to take the opportunity to explore this often overlooked area of Melbourn.

Lastly, this article would not be complete without mentioning the sterling work conducted by Maureen Brierley and the Stockbridge Meadows Volunteers, who work continuously to maintain this excellent facility. If you would like to get involved please do contact me at parishclerk@ melbournpc.co.uk Simon Crocker, Melbourn Parish Council

Stockbridge Meadows Dolphin Lane, Melbourn