News
News and upcoming events in the local area.
Waterford Marsh: new fencing to help the public and the Beane
New fencing has been put in place on the Marsh to protect the river Beane from ‘poaching’ damage by grazing animals, although all areas of this common land are still accessible to everyone. The main footpath along the river, part of the Hertfordshire Way, is now separate from the fenced area to the East. There are accessible kissing gates at the southern and northern ends of the Marsh, plus one in the middle. The footpath through to Molewood, part of Waterford Heath, is still accessible as before, with an additional gate by the railway bridge.
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The project was coordinated by Hertfordshire County Council’s Countryside and Rights of Way team (CROW) in collaboration with the Environment Agency and was approved by central government after a consultation period.
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Stapleford Parish Council continue to manage the Marsh and this will include cutting the grass outside the fenced areas and helping to monitor the trees along the main footpaths.
Riverbank works at Waterford Marsh
Last winter major restoration to help improve the river habitat at the Marsh was undertaken when a long section of concrete walls was removed. These structures had been deteriorating in recent years and were impeding the natural flow and biodiversity along the river. In a similar initiative to the fencing plan above, this project was a collaboration between CROW and the Environment Agency. The River Beane Restoration Association and partners are also working to improve the river habitat here and the reprofiled banks will be key to these aims. Further information (and photos) of the Marsh banks project can be found in their Spring newsletter, ‘What’s Beane Happening’, via the website: www.riverbeane.org.uk/
Stapleford Village Hall
Stapleford Village Hall is available for hire. For bookings and further information please contact Frances Stevenson: t: 01992 586171 e: tstevenson@talk21.com
Walk along the river Beane into Woodhall Park
Stapleford Parish Council continue to promote this walk along the river Beane from Stapleford. It includes scenic views across Woodhall Park. Originally launched in collaboration with Herts County Council’s Countryside Management Service, it has been enjoyed by many people in recent years. Details about the 2.5-mile circular route are available at the start, near to St Mary’s church, where leaflets may be obtained.
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The walk may also be found online at: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/cms - (see under Walking and Cycling routes).