Site Survey

Introduction

Old Road Meadow is a rectangular field of about 3 hectare lying in an approximately north south direction. It is bordered to the north by an actively farmed allotment, to the west by a hedge, to the east by a hedge and drain and to the south by suburban gardens, hedge, drain and fence.

Site Description

The west hedge is composed of Hawthorn which is over grown and uncut providing good nesting sites and food for birds

The east hedge is an old over grown hedge with the following species: hawthorn, blackthorn , Elder, Dog Rose, Dogwood. There are mature Oak, Sycamore and Ash present. Bramble and Wood Woundwort are present in the ground flora under the hedge. The overgrown nature of the hedge provides good habitat for wildlife.

The southern edge is composed of an area of cut grass, a drain, ornamental shrubs, a recently dug out drain and an area where the earth from the dug out drain has been spread. Ornamental Marsh Marigold is flourishing in the recently cleared drain along with yellow flag. Tadpoles are also living in the drain.

The pond was dry at the time of the survey.

A path running diagonally across the site dissects the grassland area. There are also paths around the edges of the site. Trees (Oak, Alder, Aspen, Horse Chestnut) have been planted on the site in the past.