Pope’s Meadow Management Plan

2013 - 2023 (Reviewed January 2018)

Parks & Countryside Service

Environment, Culture & Communities I. Contents Table of Contents I. CONTENTS ...... 2 II. PURPOSE OF PLAN ...... 4 1. BACKGROUND ...... 5 1.1 SITE DESCRIPTION ...... 5 a) Topography ...... 5 b) Geology and Soils ...... 6 c) Land Ownership History ...... 6 d) Boundary Responsibilities ...... 6 e) Access 6 f) Junior Football Pitch ...... 7 g) Drainage and Flooding ...... 7 h) Adjacent Land ...... 7 i) Community Involvement ...... 7 1.2 ARCHAEOLOGY & HERITAGE ...... 8 1.3 LANDSCAPE & BIODIVERSITY...... 10 a) Meadow ...... 11 b) Copse ...... 11 c) Pond ...... 12 d) Trees ...... 12 e) Hedgerows ...... 13 2. CONTEXT ...... 14 2.1 PLANS, STRATEGIES & POLICIES ...... 14 2.2 QUALITY STANDARDS ...... 16 3. MANAGEMENT ...... 17 3.1 VISION, AIMS & OBJECTIVES ...... 17 3.2 SITE MAINTENANCE ...... 18 3.2.1 Work plan and compartment management ...... 20 3.3 A WELCOMING PLACE ...... 28 3.3.1 Directions to the Park (GF1) ...... 28 3.3.2 Site entrances (GF1) ...... 28 3.3.3 Furniture (GF3) ...... 28 3.3.4 Information provision (GF7) ...... 28 3.4 SOCIO-ECONOMIC DATA (GF6) ...... 28 3.5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION (GF6) ...... 29 3.6 CHALLENGES FACED ...... 30 3.6.1 Dog control ...... 30 3.6.2 Anti-social behaviour ...... 30 3.6.3 Safety (GF2)...... 31 3.7 HEALTH AND SAFETY (GF2) ...... 31 3.8 ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY (GF4)...... 32

2 3.8.1 Recycling ...... 32 3.8.2 Peat free ...... 32 3.8.3 Pesticides ...... 32 3.8.4 Local sourcing and wider environmental impact ...... 33 3.9 VETERAN TREE CONSERVATION (GF5)...... 33 3.10 PROMOTING COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ...... 34 3.10.1 Events (GF6) ...... 34 3.10.2 Volunteers (GF3, 4, 5 & 6) ...... 35 3.10.3 New audiences (GF7) ...... 35 4. IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS ...... 36 4.1 PLAY AREA UPGRADE ...... 36 4.2. PATH IMPROVEMENT WORKS ...... 37

APPENDICES ...... 38 APPENDIX A: GREEN FLAG AWARD STANDARDS ...... 38 APPENDIX B: MAPS ...... 39 Location map ...... 39 Site access map ...... 40 Geology map ...... 40 Site furniture location plan ...... 41 TPO map 2016 ...... 42 Site compartment map and key ...... 43 Orienteering map ...... 44 APPENDIX C: BYELAWS ...... 45 APPENDIX D: SPECIES LIST - PHASE 1 ECOLOGICAL SURVEY ...... 46 APPENDIX E: VETERAN TREES ...... 47 APPENDIX F: LEGISLATION SUMMARY ...... 51 APPENDIX G: SANG ENHANCEMENT WORKS ...... 52 APPENDIX H: BAP TARGETS ...... 55 APPENDIX I: POPE’S MEADOW QUALITY AUDIT FORM ...... 56 APPENDIX J: DOG OWNERS/WALKERS CODE OF CONDUCT LEAFLET ...... 59 APPENDIX K: FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT SUMMARY ...... 60 APPENDIX L: ROAD SIGN LOCATIONS ...... 62 APPENDIX M: POPE’S MEADOW LEAFLET AND WEBSITE ...... 63 APPENDIX N: BFC VOLUNTEERS POLICY AND CONTACT INFORMATION ...... 65 APPENDIX O: MAINTENANCE FORMS ...... 67 APPENDIX P EVENTS AT POPE’S MEADOW ...... 69 APPENDIX P RISK ASSESSMENT MATRIX ...... 70 REFERENCES ...... 72

3 II. Purpose of Plan 1. To provide a management tool and guiding document for Parks & Countryside staff. 2. To enhance general understanding of the site for officers, members of the authority, visitors and the wider community and other interested parties. 3. To enable the site to be entered for a Green Flag Award, a national standard for the quality of public parks and green spaces in England and Wales. Green Flag Award standards (GF) are referenced in section 3 of the Plan, and a full list is provided in Appendix A. 4. To relate management of the site to wider strategies and policy In developing this plan the aim is to:

In developing this plan the aim is to: • Set objectives for site management • Identify management requirements to achieve the objectives (effective and efficient) • Prioritise action • Identify and define the monitoring requirements to measure the effectiveness of management • Assess, prioritise and secure resources • Enable communication with the public, organisations and other sites • Provide a base line and description of the site • Ensure continuity of effective management

This current plan covers a 10 year period, from 2013 until 2022 and will be reviewed on a biennial basis in accordance with the Green Flag Award criteria.

4 1. Background

1.1 Site Description Pope’s Meadow is a 5.5 hectare historic landscape park located on the edge of Binfield village and Bracknell town. The site is a valuable countryside resource for quiet informal recreation for the local community and was officially opened to the public in 1985.

Originally part of the historic grounds of Pope's Manor, the park has a high quality mature semi-natural landscape including open views and historic oak parkland. A haven for biodiversity, it is a Local Wildlife Site (LWS) and educational nature walks and talks and volunteer conservation work frequently take place. The children's play area and football pitch are regularly used; other amenities include an interpretation board, circular disabled access path, benches and picnic tables.

Site summary features

Ownership / Bracknell Forest Council (BFC) senior and site management rangers; play area inspector and planning and projects team Type: Meadow, parkland, copse, ponds, football pitch, play area Location: St. Marks Road/ Murrellhill Lane, Binfield, Berkshire, RG42 4BB. OS Ref.: SU 843 699 See location map and aerial site maps in Appendix B Designations Green Flag Award (site/features) Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) Local Wildlife Site (LWS) Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) Wayleaves & Easements: None Bylaws: Displayed on-site and listed in Appendix C.

a) Topography The land falls gently and evenly from east to west, forming a generally west facing slope declining from about 85m to 70m.

5 b) Geology and Soils The higher areas of the site are of sandy Bagshot Beds whilst the lower areas are London Clay, and prone to waterlogging during the winter months. The top soils are quite thick in places, and deemed to be very nutrient rich producing vigorous meadow growth. See Appendix B for a site geology map.

c) Land Ownership History Pope’s Meadow was originally part of the historic grounds of Pope's Manor. Further historical information can be found in section 1.2. The land forming Pope’s Meadow was transferred to Bracknell Forest Borough Council from (then) Bryant Homes on 31st August 1984 as a result of a Section 106 agreement for the renovation of Pope's Manor. The agreement provides for the grounds of Pope's Manor to be opened to the public twice a year. (Plans ref. F000026).

d) Boundary Responsibilities A selection of fences and hedges, both ancient and recent, are found around the site boundary and internally. The boundaries (mostly hedgerows of holly and elm, with some chain-link fencing) up to the highway at St. Mark’s Road and Murrellhill Lane are the responsibility of BFC.

The tall chain-link fence along the Pope’s Manor / BFC boundary is the responsibility of the Pope’s Manor occupants.

Bramble scrub is managed along the fence along the north boundary in order to discourage access onto private land to the north.

e) Access Vehicle access is available via St. Mark’s Road, which leads into the site car park. This entrance has a restrictive height barrier. The car park has a tarmac surface and spaces for about 20 cars. A second vehicle access point into the park is from Murrellhill Lane; this has a field gate at the entrance and is used for maintenance. From the car park, a surfaced path provides mobility-impaired persons and other pedestrians with the opportunity to explore the site via a circular route which takes in the scenic beauty of the pond and meadow.

The park has five pedestrian access points, along the two roads to the east and west:

St Mark’s Road: • Through the car park • Through an access near the London Road traffic lights (a path with limestone scalping surface enables access by wheelchairs to the circular route) • Through an access point by the football pitch.

Murrellhill Lane: • Beside vehicle access gate in NW corner • Across a small wooden footbridge through hedge-line at SW corner.

Wooden five bar field gates (locked) are located at the NW corner (Murrellhill Lane) and by the football pitch (St. Mark’s Rd).

6 Wider access There are no public rights of way in Pope’s Meadow, but Binfield Footpath 11 connects to the site, giving access to farmland to the west. This is part of a trail known as the ‘Bracknell Forest Ramblers Route’, which is a 26 mile walking route around the borough. The route crosses the site, passing from the gate at the London Road traffic lights, down past the pond and across to the gate in the north-west corner, where it continues north along Murrellhill Lane. A leaflet is available to download from the Council’s website (see References section). See Appendix B for a site access map

f) Junior Football Pitch The pitch is available for use by junior clubs (under 13) and for informal use by the public. The pitch is not managed as a commercial facility, and its maintenance reflects this (other better quality and better equipped sports pitch facilities cater for the more demanding requirements of leagues and more senior clubs).

g) Drainage and Flooding Functional drainage ditches line Murrellhill Lane and part of the western site boundary.

The lower part of the site becomes waterlogged during normal winter conditions. Ditch maintenance along Murrellhill Lane alleviates road flooding, and a soakaway pipe links the two ditches either side of the field gate on the lane. Drainage systems installed in the football pitch (which has very poor natural drainage) flow into the main pond where the level fluctuates seasonally without ever flooding or drying. The woodland pond does dry up and is a seasonal pond in most years.

h) Adjacent Land Much of the surrounding land is open agricultural or parkland with sheep pasture to the west of Murrellhill Lane, and the remaining grounds of Pope’s Manor adjacent to the south. A large private garden with woodland and a stagnant sunken pond occupies the northern side of the site. Suburban residential land lies further to the north and east of St. Mark’s Road.

Murrellhill Lane has been closed to traffic as a through route. This increases its potential as an informal countryside recreation resource.

i) Community Involvement Local residents take an active interest in the park and its management, and in addition Bracknell Conservation Volunteers (BCVs), Berkshire Conservation Volunteers and Reading and Slough Community Payback often carry out tasks that contribute to the amenity and wildlife value of the park and are particularly significant in dealing with localised labour intensive projects. The emphasis is the provision of a low key semi- natural greenspace rather than formal facilities and management provides a healthy, safe and secure venue for open-air leisure.

7 1.2 Archaeology & Heritage

Pope’s Meadow is named after Binfield’s most famous resident, the 18th century poet and philosopher Alexander Pope (1688- 1744). His formative years (1700 to 1716) were spent at Pope’s Manor, known then as Whitehill House, developing his writing skills.

His most famous works written during this time included Windsor Forest (1713) and The Rape of the Lock (1714). A grove of beech trees called Pope’s Wood to the North – East of the site, behind what is now Newbold College and the surrounding landscape is where the poet gained a great deal of inspiration.

A changing landscape Pope’s Meadow was originally part of the historic grounds of Pope's Manor; this was a small structure, probably of brick, suitable to a yeoman farmer rather than a member of the gentry (The Alexander Pope Encyclopaedia, By Pat Rogers, 2004).

It was described by Pope as “ My paternal cell, A little house with tree a row, And like its Alexander Pop master very low”. The house had land attached to it totalling 1 acres. There was in the garden down to the year 1884, when it died, a cypress tree, traditionally said to have been planted by Pope. (Home Counties Magazine, 21 (1900). In 1887 there was a “walled kitchen garden, undulating parkland with fine old forest trees in all about 40 acres and 37 poles of land” (Catalogue of the house sale in Reading Reference Library, Tuesday May 24th 1887). In the 1940’s and 50’s the gardens were often opened to the public by Mrs Mozelle Sassoon for the benefit of the Gardeners Benevolent Society. The attraction being some fine herbaceous borders and rockeries. As well as ornamental landscape features there are some ancient trees, including oaks close to the car park which are at least 400 years old.

Alexander Pope moved to Binfield in1700, when he was 12 years old. It was in these formative years that Pope explored surrounding Windsor Forest and gained inspiration for poems such as Windsor Forest. The family left London due to the exclusion of Roman Catholics from a 10 mile radius of the city in the reign of James II. In 1716 the family left Binfield for Twickenham.

Pope’s ideas helped influence the Picturesque Movement (1780-1830); a move away from the formal, safe landscape to rugged nature and its legacy of visual appreciation. This in turn led to the public parks movement – and its provision of spiritual refreshment to city dwellers. Indeed Pope significantly influenced town and country planning and landscape architecture.

8 Aerial Photograph of Pope’s Meadow 1948, source: Bracknell Library

The site is shown on John Rocque’s (a surveyor and cartographer) map of 1761. The house dates from 1695 and has had a number of different names before it was called Pope’s Manor, including Binfield Lodge, Pope’s Lodge, The Firs and Arthurstone. James Macnabb owned the house at this time and his son, Donald Macnabb, a former commissioner in India owned Farley Hall. A Berkshire XXXVIII – OS Six-inch map published in 1883 (surveyed 1871 - 1872) shows it to be called 'The Firs' and 'Pope's Meadow' as Applepie Green. The latter name may be in some way connected to the field-name for the wild plant hairy willow- herb.

'Wild plants are often referred to in field-names in popular form. The hairy willow-herb Epilobium hirsutum, for instance, is called Apple-pie in a number of field-names in southern counties, including Oxfordshire, which has Applepie Pightle, in Mapledurham, Applepie Corner, in Burford, and Applepie Piddle, in Nuffield. In Berkshire there is a location known as Applepie Green in Binfield, and Applepie Hill and Piece appear in the Tithe Apportionment for Compton.' A History of English Field Names, by John Field (1993)

A Berkshire XXXVIII – OS Six-inch map of 1898 shows the presence of a boat house and a filter bed, which was likely used to filter the manor’s (called Pope’s House at this time) household ‘grey water’. The Binfield Parish tithe map, 1839 shows there was no lake marked within the grounds. The central copse at this time was called Furze Copse and the house, copse and surrounding meadows were owned by Rev. Edward Fane. A number of clergy have lived in the house over the years.

194. C1921-1928. Arthurstone (Pope’s Manor)

9 1.3 Landscape & Biodiversity

Devil's-bit Scabious

Pope's Meadow offers a fine landscape with natural and semi-natural features. Mature oak parkland and the ancient copse provide attractive views from across the playing field grassland, whilst the sloping nature of the site allows open views across to the mixed farmland to the west, which also has mature hedgerows and small copses.

A hedgerow along St. Mark’s Road, dominated by mature holly, provides a natural softening to the neighbouring urban landscape. The rural character of Murrellhill Lane benefits from the roadside hedges and views into the lower part of the parkland from the lane.

Pope’s Meadow is designated as a Local Wildlife Site for its mosaic of habitats consisting of rough grassland, parkland, a small area of semi-natural broad-leaved woodland and ponds:

• A3 Parkland: scattered trees • G1 Open water: standing water • SW12 Swamp: Typha latifolia (Joint Nature Conservation Committee Phase 1 habitat classifications)

• MG6 Grassland: Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus. (National Vegetation Classification community description)

A Phase 1 ecological survey was completed by the Thames Valley Environment Record Centre (TVERC) in September 2012. The survey recorded 72 plants and 10 animals during the survey. Findings from the survey are included in the habitat descriptions below and a full site species list can be found in Appendix D.

10 a) Meadow

Cut grass path through the meadow

The meadow is the main focus of the site and contains large standard trees from the former parkland. These are mostly pedunculate (common) oak (Quercus robur) although limes are also present. A mixed hedge of native species runs along the site boundary fence.

The meadow is a mosaic of grassland with similarities to both an MG6 NVC community and an MG1 grassland community. The dominant grass species were cock’s-foot, red fescue and perennial rye-grass. Herbaceous plants were a part of the sward and the species present included common sorrel, lesser celandine, hogweed, creeping buttercup, common ragwort, yarrow and cuckooflower. Towards the west the grassland becomes more species rich with affinity to an MG5 NVC community.

The meadow grassland provides foraging and breeding opportunities for a range of invertebrates, small mammals and is likely to provide cover and foraging opportunities for reptiles and amphibians recorded on site.

b) Copse The relatively open canopy consists of pedunculate oak, with occasional ash, and field maple. The understorey consists of hazel, mature holly, with occasional elder, hawthorn and bramble . Bird boxes, an owl box and a stag beetle loggery (shown above) are present within these areas of copse to encourage wildlife. The ground flora included wood avens, lesser celandine, common dog-violet, bluebell, enchanter’s nightshade, remote sedge, tufted hair grass and common nettle. Stag beetle loggery A small woodland pond was situated at the eastern edge of the woodland with very little visible aquatic vegetation; leaf litter was present however.

11 c) Pond

Woven hedge along the pond edge to reduce erosion

The pond supports a range of submerged and emergent aquatic plants and is known to support four species of amphibian. It is likely to be of high value to a range of aquatic invertebrate species and species that forage at ponds including several conversation priority groups/species such as grass snake, birds and bats for example.

The dense areas of marginal and emergent vegetation such as bulrush, yellow flag iris and lesser pond sedge, and the surrounding trees and shrubs such as crack willow are likely to provide cover for nesting birds. Water lilies have also established in the centre of the pond.

Due to the range of notable species associated with the pond, its likely wider value to species not specifically associated with wetland habitats, and as a an example of a UK and local Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat, the pond is of value at the district level, and forms a key part of the site’s complex of ecologically important habitats at the county level.

d) Trees Mature oak trees (Quercus sp.) are present in the meadow, copse and hedgerows. These are remnants of the site’s parkland history. Many of them are considered to be at least 400 years old as the site would have once formed part of the Windsor Royal Hunting Forest.

The trees have hollows, dead wood, sections of loose bark and splits and are of ecological importance for species associated with dead wood habitats such as invertebrates, fungi, birds and mammals, including roosting bats - a European Protected Species.

12 The veteran trees, in combination with the semi-improved grassland managed at a low intensity, create an example of wood-pasture habitat – a UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat and considered to be of ecological importance at the county level.

The great age of many of these trees and the fact that they’re of exceptional cultural, landscape or nature conservation value gives them veteran status. A full list of veteran trees recorded on site can be found in Appendix E.

e) Hedgerows

Many of the hedgerows around the site boundary are of notable age and contain a wide range of species.

The hedgerow on the eastern site boundary (St Mark’s Road) comprises predominantly of trimmed holly. Further species had established amongst the thick holly including oak, hawthorn, elder and rowan. The ground flora beneath the hedgerow was typical of hedgerow banks including lesser celandine, cleavers, common sorrel, greater stitchwort, common daisy, common nettle, common field forget-me-not, white dead-nettle, dandelion, yarrow, red fescue and cock’s-foot.

The intact hedgerow on the southern boundary, from the large pond to the western boundary, comprises of dogwood, blackthorn, hawthorn, hazel and field maple. Herbaceous plants had established at the base of the hedgerow including common nettle, cleavers, hogweed and lesser celandine.

The native hedgerow on the western site boundary comprises predominantly of blackthorn with holly, hawthorn, bramble, goat willow, elm and hazel. Herbaceous species had established along the edge of the hedgerow in the uncut grass including hogweed, broadleaved dock, cleavers, common nettle, creeping buttercup, cow parsley, ground-ivy, lesser celandine, creeping thistle, dove’s-foot cranesbill, lords-and-ladies, clover and spear thistle.

The hedgerow boundaries provide a corridor linking woodland habitats and providing important commuting and foraging routes for bats – European Protected Species. Additionally, the hedgerows provide potential habitat for a range of invertebrate species and other groups particularly birds, bats, small mammals including dormice, reptiles and amphibians. Notable bird species include dunnock, song thrush and bullfinch for example whilst foraging birds of prey are attracted by the small mammals that shelter in the hedgerow.

The hedge between the play area and the pond was planted in the mid-1990s and has been laid by volunteers in subsequent winters. Hazel and holly from the main copse were coppiced to provide hedging materials. Several standards have been allowed to grow on..

13 2. Context

2.1 Plans, strategies & policies The strategic significance of Pope’s Meadow is centred on the provision of and access to green space which is widely recognised as being a key contributor to wellbeing and quality of life. This includes being pivotal to: • Character of the built environment • Social functions - health, recreation and play, social inclusion, community development • Environmental quality • Economic vitality • Sustainability

The creation, protection and management of Pope’s Meadow are enshrined through a rich and diverse legislative framework. See Appendix F: legislation summary.

At a Policy level, green infrastructure is imbedded within key documents, plans and quality standards, some of which are set out below.

The Council Plan 2015 – 2019 The Council Plan has defined six Strategic themes, including four that are supported by the Parks and Countryside Management Plans. • People live active and healthy lifestyles • A clean, green, growing and sustainable place • Strong, safe, supportive and self-reliant communities • A strong and resilient economy

14 Key measures of success are identified for each strategic theme and the proposed review of the site management plans will act directly to ensure: • Resident satisfaction levels with parks and open spaces is maintained

The plans will indirectly support the key measures of success that: • Development plans provide sufficient open space • Numbers of adults and young people participating in leisure and sport has increased • Levels of volunteering and community action in the borough are increased • High levels of community cohesion are maintained • There are low levels of crime and anti-social behaviour throughout the borough Comprehensive public health programmes are delivered

Parks and Open Spaces Strategy (2012) This strategy is concerned with the management and development of public parks and public open space of recreational value. It is intended to provide a strategic basis and context for the management of sites across the borough.

Key objectives are: A. Provision: Protect and establish public open space for recreation, play, sport, health, biodiversity, heritage and climate change mitigation and adaption that is appropriate to need; strategically located; and adaptable to future requirements

B. Maintenance: Provide safe and welcoming public open space; attain and improve quality standards

C. Use and Enjoyment: Make sure public open space supports well-being; encourages participation; and facilitates social inclusion

1.4 Priorities Of greatest importance is sustaining and raising quality standards for parks and open spaces, together with the provision of facilities that are of a sufficient size to meet the recreational demands of a growing residential population. This needs to be achieved in the context of increasing pressure to reduce public expenditure, alongside encouraging greater community ownership and involvement. Core priorities over the next 5 years which are related to quality standards and Green Flag include:

Monitor and assess quality standards across parks and open spaces. Manage sites to a high standard; carry out improvement works to sustain and improve quality in line with the Bracknell Forest Council ‘Plus One Principle’ and relevant national guidance.

Maintain Green Flag status for existing award winning parks and attain additional Green Flag Awards for suitable sites.

Play Open Spaces and Sports Study (POSS) See 2.2 Quality Standards.

Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area Bracknell Forest Council is legally obliged to make sure that no adverse effect on the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area will arise from new development. In response, Pope’s Meadow will become a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) as part of the Thames Basin Heaths Avoidance and Mitigation Supplementary Planning Document (SPA SPD). A SANG plan has been written to outline enhancements to attract

15 visitors away from the SPA. SANG enhancements are funded by developer contributions and are therefore dependant on the timing of development taking place.

A summary of the proposed SANG enhancement works is included in Appendix G.

Biodiversity Action Plan As Pope’s Meadow is designated as a Local Wildlife Site (LWS) special attention will be given to ensuring that the provision for increased visitor use will include opportunities to protect and enhance the ecological value of the site. Management will support delivery of the Bracknell Forest Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2023, including activities such as the management of veteran trees and creation of stag beetle loggeries. For a list of relevant BAP targets and an explanation as to the extent to which Pope’s Meadow could contribute towards them see Appendix H for BAP targets.

Local Transport Plan 3 (LTP3) The Local Transport Plan (LTP) sets the context for the development of, and improvements to, transport over the next fifteen years. The draft LTP3 for 2011-2026 underwent consultation in autumn 2010 and is due for adoption in spring 2011. The new Local Transport Plan 3 (LTP3) will replace LTP2, which is due to expire in 2011.

2.2 Quality Standards POSS Study (2017) In 2012 Bracknell Forest Council commissioned an audit of public open spaces in the borough to provide updated information on their quantity and quality.

The purpose of carrying out the audits was to inform the Local Plan Review and to prioritise improvement work. Consultants who had originally carried out the Borough's PPG17 report in 2006 were employed to carry out these new quality audits, which included 25% of green spaces managed by the Council’s Parks and Countryside Service. The remaining 75% of these audits were carried out by BFC staff (P&C officers, senior rangers and park managers) and a new external consultant between 2012-2016.

The quality assessment used as part of this audit is based on criteria similar to Green Flag Award®, a scheme that is the benchmark national standard for parks and green spaces in the UK (see Appendix A for Green Flag Award standards). It encompasses all the critical elements advocated within Planning Policy Guidance 17. Linked to this, there are basic criteria which should be considered as standard.

The audit for Pope’s Meadow was carried out in February 2016 by an external consultant, where the site achieved a quality score of 71%. This puts it into the category rating of Very Good. This is a decrease in its category rating from when it was audited in 2006 and achieved a rating of Excellent and a score of 82%.

Since receiving this score, the Parks and Countryside Service have been working to carry out improvements to address some of the feedback from the consultant. For example, the site could have achieved a better score for accessibility (scored 3 out of 5). Improving site access was also one of the areas identified in the SANGs plan. In 2017, P&C successfully applied for funding from BFC to provide a new circular surfaced path from the car park and around the site. Further detail about this project can be found under 4.2 Path Works. For a copy of the Quality audit form for Pope’s Meadow see Appendix I.

16 3. Management

Green Flag Award publicity, July 2014

3.1 Vision, Aims & Objectives

Vision To provide a sustainably managed countryside park for the community which is accessible, safe and enjoyable whilst conserving and enhancing its natural and heritage features along with offering appropriate facilities for informal recreation.

Aims and Objectives To maintain and promote the site as a safe, attractive and popular place for informal recreation available to a wide cross-section of the community. • Manage the site to ensure that it is clean, safe, secure and accessible for the community. • Promote and market the site through leaflets, websites, interpretation and events.

To maintain and enhance both the historic landscape character of the site, and the features of nature conservation value in keeping with its status as a Local Wildlife Site (GF5). • To survey the site on a regular basis. • Manage the site in a sensitive manner to retain and improve its historical value. • Manage the site in a sensitive manner to retain and improve its conservation value.

To seek to improve the recreational resource for visitors by maintaining a good relation with Pope’s Manor (GF6).

Remain aware of future developments in order to provide the ever increasing population of visitors to Pope’s Meadow with an improved recreation resource (GF7).

17 3.2 Site maintenance

The Rangers are responsible for maintaining and promoting outdoor recreation, public access, wildlife, landscape and heritage conservation at just under 80 parks and countryside sites across the borough. They specialise in maintaining existing links and further developing community involvement in the parks. The Play Area Inspector is responsible for safety of the Council’s formal play areas and skate facilities.

Regular maintenance consists of tree and shrub care; litter picking; repair of fences; car park surfacing; notice boards; benches; bins; and play equipment (GF2, 3 & 5).

The grass margins of footpaths and areas of more frequent public access are maintained at a shorter length whilst pitch areas require more intensive grassland maintenance (GF3). The open aspect of the lower meadow is maintained by cutting back shrubs and maintaining the open views and security on the site (GF2). Scallops within scrub & bramble around woodland edge are also created in order to restrict encroachment of the copse into the meadow (GF5).

Thinning and coppicing of the faster growing tree/shrub species (e.g. willow, holly, hazel) is carried out to allow the longer term tree species (e.g. oak and ash) to succeed and to encourage a greater diversity of ground flora (GF5).

To maintain and encourage diversity of the meadow area they are mown annually and cuttings removed. This enables the plants to flower and seed whilst preventing the invasion of coarse grasses and woody species (GF5).

The pond is monitored to guide future silt removal. Work took place in 2013 to strengthen the banks of the pond using willow spilling (GF5). Coir rolls have been established in some of the pond margins. These are an organic living revetment that provide erosion control and rapid vegetation establishment.

The small area of woodland at Pope’s Meadow is maintained with an open aspect to encourage and support ground flora (GF5). This also provides for enhanced security and safety (GF2).

18 The entrance is kept clear of scrub to maintain safe visibility lines for pedestrians and motorists when entering and leaving car park. All hedge types by the car park are trimmed to a height of approximately 2.4 metres and to maintain general shape and vigour (GF2).

The play area is inspected weekly and any repairs needed identified. A detailed site inspection of the site takes place every six months to identify and prioritise works required. Twice a year an external inspection of play equipment takes place (GF2 & 3).

Mowing and litter collection is currently carried out by Continental Landscapes – an outside contractor with a borough wide contract. (GF3). (GF2).

Funding for maintenance is allocated through Parks and Countryside revenue budgets. Specific site spend is prioritised according to work programming, level of use and the extent of facilities available (GF7).

Maintenance forms can be found in Appendix O.

Capital budgets are allocated annually with project proposals assessed at member level. Details are summarised in Appendix K: Financial Management Summary (GF7).

19 3.2.1 Work plan and compartment management

Table to be viewed in conjunction with the site compartment map in Appendix B. TARGET/ GREEN WORK FREQUENCY AREA COMPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY MONITORING/ FLAG REVIEW CRITERIA Litter Picking General litter pick of car 2 x Weekly: Year- Contractor - Continental GF3 Car Park 1 Monitor Year-round park. round Landscape Limited Car park litter bins 3 x Weekly: Year- Contractor - Continental GF3 Car Park 1 Monitor Year-round emptied. round Landscape Limited Football pitch litter bins 3 x Weekly: Year- Football Contractor - Continental GF3 10 Monitor Year-round emptied. round Pitches Landscape Limited Weekly: Winter & GF2 Contractor - Continental Litter pick of play area. 2 x Weekly: Play Area 12 Monitor Year-round Landscape Limited GF3 Summer General site litter to be GF3 picked as and when As required All All BFC Rangers/ Volunteers Monitor Year-round necessary. Play Area Weekly safety inspections GF2 and repairs as per agreed As required Play Area 12 BFC Review Annually GF3 standard. Maintain paths and GF1 benches that serve the As required Play Area 12 BFC Review Annually GF2 play area. Grass Mowing Mow grass areas as per GF1 the Grounds Maintenance GF3 Schedule to provide a large Fortnightly: Contractor - Continental Monitor Year- GF5 open recreational area and Spring, Summer Grass 10 Landscape Limited Round mown pathways around & Autumn and through the lower hay meadow. Mow grass banks as Fortnightly: GF3 Contractor - Continental Monitor Year- shown in the Grounds Spring, Summer Grass 10 Landscape Limited Round GF5 Maintenance Schedule. & Autumn

20 TARGET/ GREEN WORK FREQUENCY AREA COMPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY MONITORING/ FLAG REVIEW CRITERIA Mow football pitch as Fortnightly: GF3 Contractor - Continental Monitor Year- shown in the Grounds Spring, Summer Grass 10 Landscape Limited Round Maintenance Schedule. & Autumn Site inspections Carried out by the Ranger GF2 to highlight any Bi-Annually: management or health and Spring & Autumn safety issues. All All BFC Review Annually Monitor anti-social issues GF2 (litter, vandalism) and As required GF3 record on database as required. Path Network and

Maintenance Cut back overhanging 6-monthly GF2 As required All near path All BFC vegetation inspection GF3 Cut back or remove 6-monthly GF3 As required All near path All BFC grass/scrub encroachment inspection 6-monthly GF2 Pot hole repairs As required All near path All BFC inspection GF3 Grassland Annual hay cut required to Annually: Contractor - Continental GF3 Meadow 5 Review Annually maintain the floral content. Summer Landscape Limited GF5 Grassland enhancement GF3 through plug planting / As required Meadow 5 BFC / Volunteers Review Annually GF5 spraying and reseeding Trees (general) Assess for work required GF2 Bi-Annually: as part of the 6-monthly Trees All BFC Review Annually Spring & Autumn GF5 site inspections. Monitor safety of old oaks. GF2 Bi-Annually: Lift prune as necessary to Spring & Autumn. Meadow 5 BFC/ Contractor Review Annually GF5 maintain the ‘parkland’ feel As Required of the site. Manage Oaks according to As required Meadow 5 BFC/ Contractor Review Annually GF5 21 TARGET/ GREEN WORK FREQUENCY AREA COMPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY MONITORING/ FLAG REVIEW CRITERIA Veteran Tree Policy Retain dead wood unless it GF5 causes an immediate hazard to footpaths. Retain As required Meadow 5 BFC Review Annually piles of dead wood in the copse area if the trees shed limbs. Supply mulch to the base GF5 of trees where parameters As required Meadow 5 BFC Review Annually allow Car Park Keep entrance clear of GF1 scrub and maintain safe GF2 visibility lines for Bi-Annually: Main Car Park 1 BFC/ Volunteers Review Annually GF3 pedestrians and motorists Spring & Autumn when entering and leaving car park. Maintain height barrier by GF3 re-painting as required and ensure that height is clearly displayed at all times. As required Main Car Park 1 BFC Review Annually Consider replacing with a more ornate barrier appropriate to the character of the site. Maintain ‘kicking’ rail fence GF2 and bollards around car GF3 park, repairing and re- staining as required. Car park fencing must prevent BFC/ Volunteers/ As required Main Car Park 1 Review Annually unauthorised vehicle Contractors access onto the playing fields (which occurs occasionally due to joy- riders). Maintain bicycle racks. As required Main Car Park 1 BFC Review Annually GF2 Maintain painted, no As required Main Car Park 1 BFC Review Annually 22 TARGET/ GREEN WORK FREQUENCY AREA COMPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY MONITORING/ FLAG REVIEW CRITERIA parking areas Site Furniture Maintain all site furniture in GF3 Bi-Annually: Bi-Annually: Spring good condition (i.e. All 13 BFC Spring & Autumn & Autumn woodstain as required). Roadside Vegetation

Maintenance Keep nettles and other St Mark's GF1 Annually: Spring Contractor - Continental Monitor Year- vegetation clear of Road -Road 3 & Summer Landscape Limited Round GF3 pavement edge. Verge Keep holly and other GF1 bushes cut back from: St Mark's GF3 overhanging the pavement Contractor Monitor Year- Annually: Winter Road -Road 3 and road; and obscuring Round Verge BFC road signs. Maintain the dense boundary hedge. Roadside GF2 Maintain safety of trees Boundary - Monitor Year- As Required 7 BFC GF5 along road. Murrellhill Round Lane Maintain roadside ditch by Roadside GF2 periodic dredging to Boundary - Monitor Year- As Required 7 BFC maintain drainage of road Murrellhill Round run-off. Lane By a gated entrance off GF1 Murrellhill Lane there is a Roadside GF3 wetland area which needs Boundary - Monitor Year- As Required 7 BFC GF5 to be periodically cleared of Murrellhill Round scrub to promote wetland Lane flora. Scrub/Bramble

Management Flail edges of large scrub GF3 bramble patches to reduce Scrub / GF5 spread of bramble scrub As Required Bramble 9 BFC/ Contractors Review Bi-Annually around the site to maintain (general) meadow cut area. 23 TARGET/ GREEN WORK FREQUENCY AREA COMPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY MONITORING/ FLAG REVIEW CRITERIA Create scallops within GF3 scrub & bramble around Annually: Autumn GF5 woodland edge to restrict Copse 6 BFC/ Contractors Review Bi-Annually & Winter encroachment of the copse into the meadow. Hedge Management Annual trimming or hedge GF3 Contractor/ BFC / laying to maintain shape Annually: Winter Hedges 3, 11 Review Annually Volunteers GF5 and vigour. Copse Hazel and holly to be GF3 coppiced for sustainable GF5 use, (including providing material for hedge laying). Reduce the density of holly Copse/ Annually: Winter 6 BFC / Volunteers Review Annually will promote ground flora Woodland and create open safer open aspect. Retain suitable standing deadwood. Nurture saplings to provide GF5 Copse/ natural regeneration of Year-Round 6 BFC Review Annually Woodland woodland. Monitor & assess presence GF5 of weeds / non-native species (such as Copse/ sycamore) and eradicate Year-Round Woodland 6 Review Annually where they pose a threat to the intrinsic value of the woodland habitat. Oak Pollards (Halo) Promote views of old oak GF5 pollards beside car park by sensitive, phased Annually: autumn Trees 1 BFC / Contractor Review annually clearance of scrub and undergrowth around the base of the trees. Retain 24 TARGET/ GREEN WORK FREQUENCY AREA COMPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY MONITORING/ FLAG REVIEW CRITERIA suitable standing deadwood. Grow on and thin GF5 replacement English Oak (Quercus robur) saplings in situ as they occur naturally. These can potentially be used as future parkland Year-round Trees/meadow All BFC Review annually oaks. Protect seedlings/saplings from hay cutting and mulch/weed as appropriate. Manage emerging oak GF5 along boundary to provide Roadside long term features in line boundary - with Veteran Tree Policy As required 7 BFC / Volunteers Review annually Murrellhill and retain dead wood Lane unless obstructing footpath. Mulch base of boundary GF4 oak trees with woodchip As required BFC / Volunteers Review annually GF5 sourced on site

Roadside GF1 Maintain access points by boundary - woodchip surfacing or As required 7 BFC / Volunteers Monitor year-round GF3 Murrellhill hoggin. Lane Roadside GF1 Maintain wooden boundary - As required 7 BFC / Volunteers Monitor year-round GF3 footbridge. Murrellhill Lane Keep all access points Annually: spring, GF1 All access clear of vegetation by summer & 1, 3, 7 & 10 BFC Review annually points GF3 strimming and pruning. autumn All access GF1 Maintain & improve As required 13 BFC Monitor year-round surfacing where necessary points GF3 25 TARGET/ GREEN WORK FREQUENCY AREA COMPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY MONITORING/ FLAG REVIEW CRITERIA with appropriate material. Signage Maintain and clean site GF1 As required All 1 & 13 BFC Monitor year-round name boards. GF3 Maintain and update GF1 signage regarding As required All All BFC Monitor year-round GF3 responsible dog ownership on-site. Notice boards Keep notice boards GF1 updated with important GF3 contact numbers, Parks & As required All 1 BFC Monitor year-round GF6 Countryside Events, site management news etc. Pitch Maintenance Monitor wear and drainage. GF3 Repair to maintain a safe Football As required 10 BFC Monitor year-round GF6 playing surface of modest pitches quality. Clear any trees/branches GF3 growing that encroach Football As required 10 BFC Monitor year-round edges of pitch and pitches spectator areas Pond Habitats Maintain balance between GF3 reed bed and open water GF5 within Pope's pond. Clear Year-round Pond 4 BFC/ Volunteers Review annually GF6 manually with volunteer groups. Clear rubbish from Pope's GF3 As required Pond 4 BFC/ Volunteers Review seasonally Pond. GF5 GF2 Monitor silt. Bi-annually Pond 4 BFC Review annually GF5 GF2 Maintain Pope's pond-side As required Pond 4 BFC Review annually fence at SW corner for GF3 26 TARGET/ GREEN WORK FREQUENCY AREA COMPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY MONITORING/ FLAG REVIEW CRITERIA public safety. Maintain cleared area of GF3 rhododendron on the north Review and monitor GF5 bank of Pope's pond at As required Pond 4 BFC annually periodic intervals through pulling emergent shoots. Maintain viewpoints from Review and monitor GF1 As required Pond 4 BFC / Volunteers benches. annually GF3 Remove invasive weeds GF2 Annually Pond 4 & 8 BFC / Volunteers Review annually such as Parrots Feather. GF5 Community Involvement and Consultation Respond to feedback GF6 collected as part of the Year-round All All BFC Review monthly Park User Survey Species Surveys Update species lists as GF5 often as possible through organised work parties, involving local wildlife Thames Valley groups and other Year-round All All Environmental Records interested volunteers Centre / BFC/ Volunteers See Appendix D: Species List.

27 3.3 A welcoming place

3.3.1 Directions to the Park (GF1) A road sign directing visitors to the site is situated at the junction of London Road and St Mark’s Road. There is also a road sign situated directly outside the main park entrance off St Mark’s Road. The visibility of the park is further increased by the presence of the Green Flag and entrance sign, which can clearly be seen on approach to the Park (see Appendix L Road Sign Locations).

3.3.2 Site entrances (GF1) Consideration is given to site use and the needs of users so that they feel that they are in a welcoming space- one that is inviting and draws people in through its visual appearance, range of facilities, high standard of maintenance, ease of access and provision of information.

Pope’s Meadow entrance signs are located at the main entrance off St Marks Road and Murrellhill Lane gate. Additional, smaller entrance signs are to be located at pedestrian access points (in accordance with site entrance review guidance).

Consideration is being given to further improving site signage by providing temporary notices explaining why a particular area is being managed. For example, an area of scrub that is being left for wildlife may lead the public to think that the site is being neglected. Appropriate signage should help to clarify this. (GF7).

3.3.3 Furniture (GF3) A number of seats and picnic benches are located at strategic points around the site. Litter bins are provided in the car park and at each entrance. See Appendix B: Site furniture location plan.

3.3.4 Information provision (GF7) A notice board is located by the car park and contains basic information about park ownership and management, the Green Flag Award Certificate and the Parks & Countryside Service ‘Helpline’ contact details. It is updated on a regular basis with information on events, activities and local groups.

An interpretation board with site map, history and wildlife information was installed on the site in early 2006 and is located at the main entrance to Pope’s Meadow.

3.4 Socio-economic data (GF6) In 2012, the mid-year population estimates showed the population of Bracknell Forest to be 115,058, comprised almost equally of men and women.

The ward of ‘Binfield with Warfield’ had a population of 8,699 in 2011 (7.7% of the borough’s population).

Of these, nearly one quarter (24.6%) were under 19 and 15% over 60 (compared to 25% and 17.4% respectively for the borough as a whole).

92.2% were white, 1.7% mixed, 3.3% Asian, 2.3% black and 0.5% other. This is comparable to figures at a Borough level.

28 Pope's Meadow does not suffer from the routine problems that plague urban parks. The area has strong community links with an educated, affluent population who have an active interest in maintaining a quality environment.

The Indices of Deprivation (2000) ranked Binfield as 8014 out of 8414 English wards (with 1 being the most deprived).

Visitor number surveys (GF6) The Parks & Countryside Service commissioned consultants in 2012 to develop a methodology for carrying out visitor number surveys across a number of sites over a three year cycle. The survey method is designed to provide a statistically reliable means of projecting annual visitor numbers across the Borough’s open spaces. The sampling was designed to take place on different types of sites, at different times and days, across the seasons, during holiday and normal periods. The methodology was field tested, and there was a training day for both external surveyors and rangers to benchmark methods. The rangers are now continuing these visitor counts in house.

3.5 Public consultation (GF6) Both visitor and site management is presented with a range of issues; particularly ensuring that the site meets the standards expected by the general public. Ongoing community involvement makes sure that the public’s comments are heard and suggestions taken into account. Both formal and informal feedback will be sought out on a regular basis to ensure that the park is meeting the needs and desires of its users.

Bracknell Forest Residents Survey According to the results of the latest residents' survey carried out in 2017, Bracknell Forest residents agree the borough is a good place to live. They get on well with their neighbours, are satisfied with the way the council runs things and can influence decisions.

The survey consisted of telephone and face-to-face interviews.

The most frequently mentioned best aspects that respondents said they liked about the borough continue to relate to access to green spaces (parks, open spaces, and the countryside (54%), with a disparate array of other aspects also mentioned.

The survey was carried out by independent company Qa Research and responses remain anonymous. The feedback will help us understand how residents view the council and what services need to be reviewed in the future.

Parks user survey Bracknell Forest Council also collects information about park use, via their Parks User Survey. This borough wide survey was started by BFC in early 2015 to help them better understand the views of users of local parks and open spaces. The survey which is available to the public on BFCs website (paper copies are available upon request), asks questions about visits to parks/open spaces, such as method of travel, the reason for the visit and length of time spent there. This helps to build a picture of visitor use.

People are also asked to rate the park’s design, maintenance, facilities, accessibility, wildlife features etc. and are given the option to provide feedback about what improvements they’d like to see. At the end of the survey those that would like to be further consulted or involved, for example via visitor surveys, regular newsletter etc. can leave their contact details. The small amount of feedback received for Pope’s Meadow is that people’s are overall very satisfied with the open space. Feedback received overall for P&C managed parks /

29 open spaces, has also generally been very positive, with 533 respondents out of the 615 who completed the survey (just over 86%) either satisfied or very satisfied with the parks and open spaces they visited.

The survey is advertised in the site noticeboard and is promoted using BFCs social media.

3.6 Challenges faced The site is long established and a well respected part of the open space resource of Binfield. It has had a stable period of relatively consistent management, and any significant proposal for change to the site should ideally undergo public consultation.

Management needs to achieve a balance between the needs of the various visitors, and the natural and ornamental features. Whilst Pope's Meadow is a Local Wildlife Site, it is largely comprised of semi-natural or designed habitats and features.

Management of a number of features (e.g. replacement of the veteran oaks) requires long term vision and planning, whilst other tasks require more routine prescriptions.

3.6.1 Dog control BFC has a corporate approach of no dog-fouling and provide combined dog-waste and litter bins on site. These bins are to be clearly marked as dual use bins in order to avoid confusion about whether people can use them to dispose of their dog litter (GF2).

Responsible dog ownership is promoted at the annual summer event ‘Paws in the Park’ which also hopes to build on the relations between land owners/managers and dog walkers. This involves educating the public to control issues such as dog fouling and control. This event first took place in 2006 and has proved so popular that it has been held every successive year in various parks across the borough (GF2).

A Dog Owners and Walkers code of conduct leaflet is being distributed via rangers, site managers and Environment Wardens, and is to be made available to download on BFCs website. See Appendix J for a copy of the leaflet.

The leaflet which has been produced by Bracknell Forest Council aims to promote responsible dog ownership in the borough, particularly in the parks and countryside. A user friendly tact has been used in order to engage dog walkers, whilst also getting important messages across in relation to responsible dog ownership, including dog health (vaccination), identification (tags/chips), fouling (dog bins/reporting/fixed penalty notices) and behaviour (dogs under close control, particularly around livestock and ground nesting birds). Site rangers and environmental protection officers within the council have been consulted, as has Sandhurst Town Council, who attend the Cleaner Borough Group meetings and have information about the action that the six Parish/Town Councils in BF are taking with the 'Be A Responsible Dog Owner' (BARDO) campaign (GF2).

The Borough Council is now fully responsible for dealing with lost or stray dogs. In the event that a stray dog is found, the ranger on duty will know to contact the owner if it’s chipped/tagged or contact customer services to pass the matter onto the relevant department.

3.6.2 Anti-social behaviour A height barrier is present at the car park entrance to prevent large vehicles from entering the car park for fly-tipping or illegal camping (GF3).

30 Anti-social behaviour at the site is minimised through the presence of a Ranger and members of the public – ensuring that the site is popular increases its safety. The height of the hedge between the car park and St Mark’s Road has also been gradually reduced to aid visibility and security of this area (GF2).

Community safety is an issue to consider in all parks. Busy spaces tend to be safe places - by making the play area attractive for parents this introduces informal community supervision (GF2).

The Bracknell Forest Community Safety Partnership (CSP) is one of a number of theme partnerships that fall under the Bracknell Forest Partnership (BFP). This collaboration brings together agencies that deliver public services and their single purpose is to improve the quality of life for local people. The CSP and its Executive meet quarterly to oversee timely and effective delivery of actions to reduce crime and disorder. BFC work in liaison with other public services including the Police and the Fire Brigade and Police Community Support Officers are employed as part of the neighbourhood teams. These officers liaise closely with the Rangers and patrol key locations (GF2).

Reported incidents of anti-social behaviour in the Borough are contained within a Community Nuisance and Disorder Information System (CADIS). This is a database of all anti-social behaviour incidents and includes reports made to Thames Valley Police (TVP), Bracknell Forest Council (BFC), Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service (RBFRS), Parks & Countryside Rangers and Town and Parish Councils (GF2).

3.6.3 Safety (GF2) Other issues of concern to visitor enjoyment include the safety aspects of using the car park, tree and water safety, condition of the paths and suitability for different visitor types (e.g. level of fitness / prams / bicycles etc). These are all regularly monitored by the site Ranger and during formal 6-monthly inspections.

In summary Pope’s Meadow occupies a significant area of land in a part of the borough that is under considerable pressure from residential development. The spread of Bracknell toward Binfield has brought high density housing ever closer to Pope's Meadow. This increases the potential volume of users to the site from the surrounding area. However, it also makes the retention of the open space more significant in terms of maintaining the quality of life for residents and ensuring the preservation of some of the rural character of Binfield village.

3.7 Health and safety (GF2) A range of policies and procedures exist to ensure that the highest health and safety standards are met at all times:

• BFBC Health, Safety and Welfare Manual of Guidance • Environment & Leisure “Health And Safety Policy & Procedure”, September 2004. • Departmental Health and Safety meetings take place on a four-monthly basis. • The Parks and Countryside Service Normal Operating Plan is issued to each member of staff upon induction and covers the working of the entire section from events and volunteer work to site management and equipment use. • Risk Assessments are carried out for all site and site-related operations including volunteer work, public events, vehicle use and tool/machinery use. • All risk assessments are collated in electronic and paper formats which are available to all staff. • COSHH reports are completed and held for all chemical use. • Safety inspection certificates are obtained for appropriate pieces of equipment.

31 • Insurance and liability details, health and safety policies and method statements are required for contractors and are held on file. • Six monthly site inspections are carried out to ensure high quality management and safety of the site. Regular checks of the play area are also carried out by the site ranger. • All Rangers are first aid trained, and details of all training are retained.

A risk assessment matrix can be found in Appendix Q.

3.8 Environmental sustainability (GF4) The need for management and maintenance efficiencies resulting from reductions in annual park maintenance budgets has results in the use of low input management regimes which reduce costs and are more sustainable. For example native planting and creation of wildflower meadow areas helps to replace high intensity measures such as floral displays, summer bedding and frequently mown amenity grass. In addition to reducing maintenance requirements and associated revenue costs, these measures are more sustainable in the long term and directly contribute to the delivery of Biodiversity Action Plan targets.

3.8.1 Recycling Recycling bins for plastic, cans and paper/cardboard are provided in the site car park, with signs on general waste bins directing people to these facilities.

This is a borough wide priority, managed by professional waste officers and is not subject to site by site variation. All BFC Parks and Countryside sites are made available to support the borough wide re-cycling initiative. There is a borough target of providing a glass recycling station for every 1000 properties, with additional re-cycling opportunities being sited alongside the glass depending on the size and capacity of the site.

Bracknell Forest Council encourages sustainable practices to minimise site waste. • Green waste is composted where possible at the Council’s recycling facility. • All material extracted from the original dredging of the pond on the southern boundary of the site was re-used for improvements to the meadow habitat. • Deadwood is retained in rough areas for wildlife but paths are kept clear for public safety. • Arisings from woodland management will be either chipped or stacked and retained on site where practical. • Chemicals are rarely used but if so BFC adheres to the following practices: - Necessary chemicals will be purchased as and when required and in the smallest quantities available so as to reduce storage.

3.8.2 Peat free

The Parks and Countryside service don’t use peat based products on their sites.

Suppliers of peat free products are as follows :- Cave Folly Nursery – Worcs Peat Free Plants – Sussex Paddock Plants – Southampton

3.8.3 Pesticides Where possible the Parks and Countryside service minimise use of herbicide by favouring non-chemical management techniques. Herbicides are only used when it’s absolutely necessary and when it is felt that the environmental benefits outweigh the environmental costs. Best practice techniques used include: 32 • Using the minimum active ingredient to achieve effective control. • Using products that will not persist in the environment or be bio-accumulative • Only using spot treatment on weeds on hard surfaces – no blanket spraying • Using non-hazard rated formulations of active ingredients.

3.8.4 Local sourcing and wider environmental impact • All wood material is locally sourced or FSA accredited. • Preference will be given to locally produced products. 'Locally' is defined as being within a 30 mile radius. • Preference will be given to products produced through sustainable methods. This includes recycled products and materials harvested from environmentally sustainable systems or organic farming methods. • Carbon emissions from maintenance operations are reduced where practical by using volunteers to carry out practical conservation tasks. • The choice of plants used will ideally be native or fully naturalized species, or their cultivars, and will not require long term additional watering.

3.9 Veteran tree conservation (GF5). We work to manage, protect and preserve the important trees in the borough including those at Pope’s Meadow. The trees are monitored as part of our 6 monthly site tree inspections and any remediation work is carried out where required using the specialist knowledge about tree management within our in-house ranger’s team and in consultation with the Council’s Tree Team. Management prescriptions include mulching around the root plates of trees helps to prevent compaction to their roots and help to prevent drought. Any work has to be done gradually so that the effects can be monitored. Too much change at once can harm the tree.

In addition to the basic 6-monthly inspections carried out by the site ranger, an arboriculturalist will be employed to survey and map the trees at Pope’s Meadow. All work carried out to trees should confirm to BS 3998:2010. See 3.11 Projects/events. They will advise on long term management of the site’s tree stock and this will feed into the new Veteran Tree Policy.

An example of work carried out in 2011 includes the removal of a picnic bench located under the crown spread of a veteran Oak tree near the eastern boundary. This was both to reduce compaction by foot traffic in the root zone, and to reduce the risk of people spending long periods of time under the canopy of veteran trees.

In a wider context, we support the work of the Bracknell Forest Veteran Tree Survey who involves groups such as Warfield Environment Group to carry out surveys to identify our important veteran trees in the borough. The project, which is also supported by Bracknell Town Council and the Bracknell Forest Natural History Society, aims to develop a database of Veteran Trees in the borough. By identifying and recording where these trees are they can be better managed and protected. This data is fed back to TVERC to develop a wider picture of veteran trees across the Thames Valley region.

Both individual and group Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) cover some of the site’s trees, including Oak, Beech, Holly, Yew, False Acacia, Scots Pine, Horse Chestnut and Lime. See Appendix B for a map of TPO trees.

A Veteran Tree Policy and management regime is being developed to:

• Maximise life span of ancient trees • Enable pro-active management

33 • Assess risk and tree location and the impact on management • Support day to day maintenance of trees • Consider wider value of trees within the landscape • Management for the future to retain landscape features – continuation, planting schemes etc.

3.10 Promoting community involvement

Newting at Pope’s Meadow

The size, landscape and location of Pope's Meadow make it a valuable amenity for a wide range of recreational activities, both informal and formal (GF6).

The site provides a self-contained visitor resource, as well as a convenient way to access the countryside of Binfield to the west. It has the only public car park serving walkers and other users in this part of Binfield, with the site being an important link in the Ramblers Route.

The main site uses are walking, dog walking, picnicking, lunch hour relaxation, rambling, children’s play, orienteering and football. The site is regularly used as a starting point for walkers heading towards the public footpaths and farmland to the west. Pope’s Meadow also has significant potential and use as an educational resource for environmental studies.

A wide range of organisations and groups are involved with Pope’s Meadow including youth group meetings (e.g. Brownies, Cubs and Scouts), school visits, wildlife groups, a parish council and volunteers (listed below). These include: • Binfield Parish Council • Binfield Football Club • Whitegrove Football Club • Various youth groups that visit for formal activities (e.g. cubs, scouts etc) • Berks, Bucks & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) • Binfield Badger Group • Berkshire Orienteers • Binfield CE Primary School

3.10.1 Events (GF6) Public events regularly take place at Parks and Countryside sites across Bracknell Forest Borough, organised by council rangers. These are advertised through a bi-annual events and activities leaflet (distributed to libraries and interested parties, on Bracknell Forest Council’s website and via social media.

34

Events lined up for 2018 include Big Tree Climbing events run in conjunction with The Big Tree Climbing Company, a Heritage Open Day walk around the grounds to learn about the history of the country park and its links with Alexander Pope, and 2 countryside walks led by BFC and volunteers. A full listing can be found in Appendix P.

An orienteering course is mapped out in Pope’s Meadow giving both residents and visitors the opportunity to explore the local parks and countryside. The mapping of the parks and provision of permanent orienteering courses is part of a project in association with Bracknell Forest Council and Berkshire Orienteer’s, funded by The Big Lottery Fund. See the orienteering map in Appendix A.

3.10.2 Volunteers (GF3, 4, 5 & 6) Volunteers make a vital contribution to the maintenance of the site. In 2014the BCVs contributed person hours to carry out conservation tasks including wood chip path laying, laurel clearance, pond edging and hedge planting.

• Bracknell Conservation Volunteers: BCVs are a friendly and informal group of local adults who carry out conservation work and practical tasks to promote wildlife and enhance our local environment. They work at many sites within the Bracknell Forest area, from small suburban woodlands to larger parks and nature reserves.

• Windsor and Maidenhead Conservation Volunteers: WMCVs were founded in 1987/88 and since then they have continued to go from strength to strength. Although there is a core group of people involved, there are many people who attend the working groups as and when they can. They are an informal and friendly group with a large variation in ages and experiences, but everyone is welcome.

• Berkshire Conservation Volunteers: BeC are a group of people who carry out voluntary environmental work on local nature reserves in Reading, Berkshire, & north Hampshire. This is valuable work that would otherwise probably not get done. The group was founded in 1975, and has been going ever since. They work for various landowners.

• Community Payback: Replacement for Community Service, also more recently called Community Punishment. Courts are given the power to sentence offenders of certain crimes to undertake between 40 and 300 hours of Community Payback. This work is unpaid and demanding work that is aimed at giving something to local communities and forcing offenders to repay the community for the wrong they have done.

More detailed information about conservation volunteering in the local area can be found on the Bracknell Forest Council webpage. See references section and Appendix N: BFC Volunteers Policy.

3.10.3 New audiences (GF7) Events and activities are constantly being reviewed and developed in order to engage the local community and target and attract new audiences.

A particular drive to link some of the events to the Bracknell Forest Biodiversity Action Plan is currently underway in order to increase awareness of the locally important species in Bracknell Forest.

The Council and its partners worked in conjunction with Disabled Go, a national charity, to produce an online access guide covering 500 venues across the Borough to help inform and empower people with disabilities. The venues listed on their website include several of

35 Bracknell Borough’s Parks and Countryside sites as well as council buildings, shops, hotels, restaurants and cafes.

Leaflets The Pope’s Meadow leaflet gives general information about the site in addition to historical and wildlife accounts. Available free of charge across the borough through libraries, information centres, council offices and community centres, the leaflet can also be ordered or downloaded from the Pope’s Meadow page on the council’s website. See Appendix M: Pope’s Meadow leaflet

Other leaflets which are relevant to Pope’s Meadow include: • Discover the Parks and Countryside of Bracknell Forest • Bracknell Forest Ramblers Route • Events and Activities (6-month basis) • Biodiversity in Bracknell Forest • Dog walking code of conduct

All content and images have been updated and key symbols are used to highlight facilities and access information, with the use of maps where appropriate. These symbols are also used within the Parks & Countryside webpages and in onsite interpretative material.

Web page A webpage (see Appendix M) is dedicated to Pope’s Meadow on the Council’s website which, provides site information, history, photos and contact details and is updated with site news such as Green Flag Awards.

4. Improvement Projects 4.1 Play area upgrade This project, which is being delivered in 2018/19 focuses on improving the outdoor play provision at Pope’s Meadow, complimenting and adding to existing facilities.

Pope’s Meadow play area contains equipment that is several year’s old and that is only suitable for toddlers i.e. 1 x springer, 2 x cradle swings and 1 x toddler multi unit. Increasing the use of the children’s play area in this location can be achieved through improved equipment; better visibility and access and reimagined use of the open space.

New play equipment is being funded by s106 develop money includes a multi-unit, various swings, an inclusive play swing, springers, see-saw and a trim trail. The equipment will be more functional, look more appealing and cater for a much wider age range (suitable for 3-14 year olds). This will better reflect the increase of usage expected due to the new adjacent developments.

Considerations given when providing this new equipment include: - New surfacing will replace bark, which will reduce existing maintenance costs and improve accessibility for disabled children and parents - Equipment will be chosen to reflect the heritage value of the site, where possible linking in to its history - Existing bark to be recycled on site as mulch base to improve the health of veteran trees

36 4.2. Path improvement works In addition to play improvements, Bracknell Forest Council is carrying out work to improve access at the site. A new surfaced path will be constructed during 2018/19, which will provide better links from the car park into and around the site. This improvement which was originally identified in the SANG site management plan, will be funded using S106 money from local developments.

The bold black line depicts approximately where the path is due to be established. The path is due to be 1.4 metres wide, with a hoggin surface and timber edging.

37 Appendices APPENDIX A: Green Flag Award standards

GF1 – A Welcoming Place 1. Welcome; 2. Good and Safe Access; 3. Signage; 4. Equal Access for All First impressions are all too important and the site should look inviting. Issues that must be considered are: good and safe access, welcome, signage and equal access for all. The site should be freely accessible to the public. However, we are fully aware that sites may well have to be locked at night for security reasons or that access to the site may be restricted to regular, advertised open days, with a designated member being the key holder.

GF2 – Healthy, Safe and Secure 5. Appropriate Level of Facilities and Activities; 6. Safe Equipment and Facilities; 7. Personal Security; 8. Control of Dogs/Dog Fouling It is of paramount importance that the site is safe. Issues such as personal security, safe equipment and facilities, appropriate level of facilities and control of dogs, and dog fouling must be considered. Sites should encourage people to live healthy lifestyles through the facilities, activities and events provided.

GF3 – Well Maintained and Clean 9. Litter and Waste Management; 10. Overall Standard of Maintenance; 11. Graffiti and Vandalism There should be an appropriate standard of maintenance throughout the site and effective management skills to combat issues including: litter, fouling and waste management, as well as graffiti and vandalism.

GF4 – Environmental Management 12. Sustainable Materials Use; 13. Waste Recycling and Minimisation; 14. Chemical Use; 15. Peat Use Judges will examine environmental issues such as peat and pesticide use, sustainable material use, waste and its minimisation.

GF5 – Biodiversity, Landscape and Heritage 16. Conservation of Landscape and Historic Features; 17. Conservation of Biodiversity Each green space is unique and has its own character. The judges will be looking at how the natural and historic features are identified on site, and what measures have been taken to enhance them where appropriate.

GF6 – Community Involvement 18. Promotion of Green Space / Project; 19. Links to the Wider Community, 20. Involvement in Decision Making; 21. Involvement in Operations; 22. Appropriate Provision for the Community This is a key criterion for the Green Flag Community Award as it looks to how well the site relates to and encompasses the local and wider community.

GF7 – Management / achievements 23. Innovation and Creativity; 24. Resources Secured/Used Here judges will be looking at what you have achieved, not only in terms of managing the green space, but also what funding and resources you have secured and how you have used them. How creative and innovative you have been with projects on your site will also be of interest.

38

APPENDIX B: Maps

Location map

39 Site access map

Geology map

40 Site furniture location plan

41 TPO map 2016

42 Site compartment map and key

Key to Compartment Map: 7. Roadside Boundary (Murrehill Lane) 1. Car Park 8. Seasonal Pond 2. Circular Path Network 9. Scrub/ Bramble 3. St Marks Road 10. Football Pitch 4. Main Pond 11. Hedge 5. Meadow/ Former Wood Pasture 12. Playground 6. Woodland 13. Mown Grass

43 Orienteering map

44 APPENDIX C: Byelaws

45 APPENDIX D: Species List - Phase 1 Ecological Survey (ref: r408/a) September 2012

Plant common name Scientific name Plant common name Scientific name Apple Malus sp. Greater plantain Plantago major Ash Fraxinus excelsior Greater stitchwort Stellaria holostea Black knapweed Centaurea nigra Ground ivy Glechoma hederacea Blackthorn Prunus spinosa Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta Hazel Corylus avellana Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. Herb Robert Geranium robertianum Broad-leaved dock Rumex obtusifolius Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium Bulrush Typha latifolia Holly Ilex aquifolium Cherry Prunus sp. Ivy Hedera helix Cleavers Galium aparine Lesser celandine Ranunculus ficaria Cock’s-foot Dactylis glomerata Lesser pond sedge Carex acutiformis Common bird’s-foot-trefoil Lotus corniculatus Lesser stitchwort Stellaria graminea Common dog-violet Viola riviniana Lime Tilia x europaea Common field speedwell Veronica persica Lords-and-ladies Arum maculatum Common lime Tilia x europaea Pedunculate oak Quercus robur Common mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum Perennial rye grass Lolium perenne Common nettle Urtica dioica Primrose Primula vulgaris Common ragwort Senecio jacobaea Red fescue Festuca rubra Common sorrel Rumex acetosa Remote sedge Carex remota Common vetch Vicia sativa Ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata Cow parsley Anthriscus sylvestris Rough meadow grass Poa trivialis Crack willow Salix fragilis Rowan Sorbus aucuparia Creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens Silver birch Betula pendula Creeping thistle Cirsium arvense Slender speedwell Veronica filiformis Cuckooflower Cardamine pratensis Smooth meadow grass Poa pratensis Daffodil Narcissus pseudo Spear thistle Cirsium vulgare Daisy Bellis perennis Tufted hair grass Deschampsia caespitosa Dandelion Taraxacum officinale agg. Water-lily Nymphaea ‘Marliacea Dogwood Cornus sanguinea White clover Trifolium repens Dove’s-foot crane’s-bill Geranium molle White dead-nettle Lamium album Elder Sambucus nigra Wood avens Geum urbanum Enchanter’s nightshade Circaea lutetiana Yarrow Achillea millefolium English elm Ulmus procera Yellow archangel Lamiastrum galeobdolon Field forget-me-not Myosotis arvensis Yellow flag iris Iris pseudacorus Field maple Acer campestre Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus Germander speedwell Veronica chamaedrys Goat willow Salix caprea

Animal common name Scientific name Blue tit Cyanistes caeruleus Great tit Parus major Jackdaw Corvus monedula Jay Garrulus glandarius Magpie Pica pica Ring-necked parakeet Psittacula krameri Robin Erithacus rubecula Great spotted woodpecker Dendrocopos major Woodpigeon Columba palumbus Wren Troglodytes troglodytes

46 APPENDIX E: Veteran Trees

Veteran tree records for Popes Meadow, correct at 10/12/2015 Date Site name Grid ref Access Setting term Species Common Girth (m) Tree Living Additiona Tree as Comment term name form status l tree habitat features 14/06/ Popes SU8420 Public Ditch, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.48 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, side 069930 access Open Space, robur Oak standing of ditch on Roadside, Murrellhill Boundary (ancient Lane or modern), Hedgerow 14/06/ Popes SU8419 Public Ditch, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.28 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, side 569995 access Open Space, robur Oak (estimate) standing of ditch on Roadside, Murrellhill Boundary (ancient Lane or modern), Hedgerow 14/06/ Popes SU8421 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.4 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, W 070010 access Open Space robur Oak (estimate) standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8421 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.53 Maiden Alive - Declining 2015 Meadow, W 869994 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8421 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.98 Maiden Alive - nest box 2015 Meadow, W 569970 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8423 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.48 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, SW 569955 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8423 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.28 Maiden Alive - Pruned 2015 Meadow, SW 569920 access Open Space robur Oak standing (surgery), field Holes or water pockets, Burred 14/06/ Popes SU8422 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.27 Maiden Alive - Pruned 2015 Meadow, SW 569910 access Open Space robur Oak standing (surgery), field Holes or water pockets, Burred 14/06/ Popes SU8420 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.25 Maiden Alive - Pruned 2015 Meadow, SW 569905 access Open Space, robur Oak standing (surgery) field Boundary (ancient or modern),

47 Date Site name Grid ref Access Setting term Species Common Girth (m) Tree Living Additiona Tree as Comment term name form status l tree habitat features Hedgerow 14/06/ Popes SU8423 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.13 Maiden Alive - Declining nest box 2015 Meadow, SW 569895 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8425 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.7 Maiden Alive - Pruned 2015 Meadow, SW 869915 access Open Space robur Oak standing (surgery), field Holes or water pockets 14/06/ Popes SU8425 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.15 Maiden Alive - nest box 2015 Meadow, SW 869885 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8427 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 3.6 Maiden Alive - Pruned 2015 Meadow, SW 069858 access Space, Field robur Oak standing (surgery), field boundary, Holes or Boundary (ancient water or modern), pockets Hedgerow 14/06/ Popes SU8427 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.8 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, SW 569880 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8427 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.8 Maiden Alive - Holes or nest box (Barn 2015 Meadow, SW 269920 access Open Space robur Oak (estimate) standing water Owl) field pockets, Bark missing 14/06/ Popes SU8430 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.2 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, SW 069900 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8432 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 4.44 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, SW 569870 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8431 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.7 Maiden Alive - Pruned 2015 Meadow, SW 769907 access Open Space robur Oak standing (surgery) field 14/06/ Popes SU8434 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.2 Maiden Alive - Pruned 2015 Meadow, SW 069947 access Open Space robur Oak (estimate) standing (surgery), field Lightning strike, Declining 14/06/ Popes SU8431 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.25 Maiden Alive - Declining 2015 Meadow, SW 069930 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8430 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.9 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow. SW 169950 access Open Space robur Oak standing

48 Date Site name Grid ref Access Setting term Species Common Girth (m) Tree Living Additiona Tree as Comment term name form status l tree habitat features field 14/06/ Popes SU8429 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 3.6 Maiden Dead - Missing 2015 Meadow, SW 869971 access Open Space robur Oak (estimate) standing limbs, field Holes or water pockets, Bark missing 14/06/ Popes SU8433 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 4.35 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, SW 469975 access Open Space robur Oak standing field 14/06/ Popes SU8429 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 3.35 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, 469985 access Space, Woodland / robur Oak standing copse Plantation / Copse 14/06/ Popes SU8427 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 3.45 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, 269995 access Space, Woodland / robur Oak standing copse Plantation / Copse 14/06/ Popes SU8428 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 3.95 Maiden Alive - Stag 2015 Meadow, 269972 access Space, Woodland / robur Oak standing headed, copse Plantation / Copse Declining 14/06/ Popes SU8424 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 3.15 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, 869956 access Space, Woodland / robur Oak standing copse Plantation / Copse 14/06/ Popes SU8423 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 4.4 Maiden Dead - Missing 2015 Meadow, 769978 access Space, Woodland / robur Oak (estimate) standing limbs, copse Plantation / Copse Burred, Bark missing 14/06/ Popes SU8427 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 3.52 Maiden Alive - 2015 Meadow, 570025 access Space, Woodland / robur Oak standing copse Plantation / Copse 14/06/ Popes SU8432 Public Lake / Pond, Public Quercus Pedunculate 3.2 Maiden Alive - Hollowing Ivy 2015 Meadow, 470010 access or Open Space, robur Oak (estimate) standing branches Copse to side Woodland / of pond Plantation / Copse 14/06/ Popes SU8438 Public Parkland, Public or Quercus Pedunculate 4.3 Maiden Alive - Holes or 2015 Meadow, NE 870020 access Open Space robur Oak standing water field pockets 14/06/ Popes SU8447 Public Public or Open Tilia Lime 3.1 Maiden Alive - Epicormic Ivy Two other Limes 2015 Meadow, St 069979 access Space, Car park, platyphyllos standing (twiggy) @2.9 metres Marks Rd Roadside, x cordata = growth close by entrance Hedgerow T. x europaea 14/06/ Popes SU8446 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 3.52 Maiden Alive - Ivy 2015 Meadow, St 569950 access Space, Car park, robur Oak standing

49 Date Site name Grid ref Access Setting term Species Common Girth (m) Tree Living Additiona Tree as Comment term name form status l tree habitat features Marks Rd Roadside, Hedgerow 14/06/ Popes SU8446 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 4.52 Maiden Alive - Holes or 2015 Meadow. St 569930 access Space, Roadside, robur Oak (measured standing water Marks Rd Hedgerow at pockets, 1.2metres) Burred 14/06/ Popes SU8446 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 5.2 Maiden Alive - Pruned 2015 Meadow, St 569922 access Space, Roadside, robur Oak standing (surgery), Marks Rd Hedgerow Holes or water pockets, Declining, Burred 14/06/ Popes SU8446 Public Public or Open Quercus Pedunculate 5.4 Maiden Alive - Hollowing Largest in Popes 2015 Meadow, St 569900 access Space, Roadside, robur Oak standing trunk, Meadow. 20 cm Marks Road Hedgerow Holes or bigger girth than water previous pockets, Woodland Trust Bark survey - is the missing hollowing trunk widening?

50 APPENDIX F: Legislation summary

The National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 Conferred powers on local authorities to create nature reserves.

The Countryside Act 1968 Duty to have regard to the desirability of conserving the natural beauty and amenity of the countryside in the exercise of functions relating to land.

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Creation of wildlife habitats through restoration of mineral workings / reclamation of derelict land; Managing local authority land so that account is taken of its wildlife interest/environmental improvement schemes; Educational activities and the provision of information about conservation.

The Planning and Compensation Act 1991 Required structure, local and unitary development plans to include policies in respect of the conservation of the natural beauty and amenity of the land.

EC Council Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora: The Habitats Directive (1992) Conservation of bio-diversity by requiring Member States to take measures to maintain or restore natural habitats and wild species at a favourable conservation status in the Community, giving effect to both site and species protection objectives.

Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 New rights of access on foot for open air recreation on access land - predominantly mountain, moor, heath or down. Establishment of the Local Access Forum - to advise on access to land for all types of open air recreation. Production of Rights of Way Improvement Plans. Greater protection for nature conservation - due regard for biodiversity.

The Local Government Act 2000 Powers for local authorities to promote the economic, social and environmental well being of their area

Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 Extension of responsibilities to safeguard and enhance biodiversity. Legal compliance: There are a number of legal provisions and statutory obligations that affect the delivery of park services that need to be duly considered and if necessary reflected in the management plan. These include: • Statutory Instrument 2004 No.118 Prescribed Descriptions (England) Order 2004 (established statutory crime and disorder strategies); • Local Government Acts 1972, 1999 (established Best Value Authorities) and 2000 (established promotion of economic, social or environmental well-being); • Local Government and Rating Act 1997; • Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996; • Environmental Protection Act 1990; • Litter Act 1983; • Parish Councils and Burials Authorities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1970; • Public Health Acts 1848 to 1875; • Smallholdings and Allotments Act 1908; • Open Spaces Act 1906; • Enclosure Act 1845.

The provisions of these Acts enable local authorities to hold land, provide services, enforce byelaws and in some cases impose fines.

Equalities Act 2010 The Equality Act 2010 is the law which bans unfair treatment and helps achieve equal opportunities in the workplace and in wider society.

51 APPENDIX G: SANG enhancement works 5 SANGS Criteria Assessment

It must be noted that the primary aim of enhancement is to encourage additional visitor access. Works should facilitate this by providing management for all weather access, stiles where necessary, site safety in terms of crossing between units and allowing dogs to run off the lead, plus interpretation, route marking, promotion etc. All enhancements must be undertaken prior to inhabitants moving into the dwellings to ensure that people do not develop a habit of visiting other sites, such as the SPA.

The following provides a list of relevant factors in considering a site’s suitability to meet SANGS criteria.

Criteria Must, Current Future Should, Desirable 1 For all the sites larger than 4Ha there must be M 1 Formal car park Improved links from car park adequate parking for visitors. The amount of car 35 car spaces into and around the site. parking space being determined by the anticipated use of the site and reflecting the visitor catchments of both SANGS and the SPA. 2 SANGS must be clearly signposted or advertised in S Entrance signs throughout New combined interpretative some way. Site webpage panel; directional fingerposts Site leaflet online around site; 3 Car parks must be easily and safely accessible by car S Site entrance signs and New combined interpretation to and should be clearly signposted. highway signs from St. Marks lead visitors to the main Road and at the Junction with entrance from the car park. London Road. 4 The accessibility of the site must include access points M One vehicular access and five All entrance points to be appropriate for the particular visitor use the SANGS pedestrian accesses including upgraded to enhance intend to absorb. links to Public Rights of Way. attractiveness and accessibility where possible. Main circular route to be surfaced. 5 The SANGS must have a safe route of access on foot M Two safe access points from the Improved links and signage from the nearest car park and/or footpaths. car park to the site. from car park and pedestrian entrances into the site and linked routes.

52 6 It would be desirable for an owner to be able to take D Dog walkers are able to walk Improved links, signage and dogs from the car park to SANGS safely off the lead. with dogs off lead directly from interpretation from car park into the car park. site. 7 All SANGS with car parks must have a circular walk M A range of routes exist around New circular route starting and which starts and finishes at the car park. the site. finishing at the car park. Links to long distance routes will be signposted. 8 SANGS larger than 12Ha must be designed to supply a M Choice of a range of lengths New circular route of 0.7km with choice of routes, from 0.5Km to more than 3.5Km in around the site. links to long distance routes will length. be signposted. Other routes around the site will have improved access. 9 SANGS must be designed so that they are perceived to M Open plan car park with good Open plan car park with good be safe by the users. views into the site. views into the site. 10 SANGS should have tree and scrub cover along parts S Mixture of woodland and open Scrub management and of the walking route. grassland with areas of scrub hedgelaying to maintain and hedgerows. balance. 11 Paths must be easily used and well maintained, but M No surfaced paths. Principal path to be surfaced most should remain unsurfaced to avoid the site with hoggin to retain natural becoming too urban in feel. character. Secondary paths unsurfaced. 12 SANGS must be perceived as semi-natural spaces with M No way-marking, some site Natural waymarkers and little intrusion of artificial structures, except in the furniture. interpretation features to remain immediate vicinity of car parks. Visually-sensitive way- in-keeping with environment. markers and some benches are acceptable. 13 It is desirable that access points make clear the layout D One interpretation panel at car New combined interpretative of the SANGS, and the routes available to visitors, by park showing routes. panel at car park, fingerposts means of interpretation panels or other means. and waymarkers around the site. Use of media such as audio trail to guide visitors. 14 It is desirable that SANGS provide the naturalistic D Popes meadow has a traditional Enhanced habitat management space with areas of open (non-wooded) countryside parkland character and a variety to maintain the woodland, and areas of dense and scattered trees and shrubs. of habitats of interest. enhance grassland areas and The provision of open water on part, but not the improve access to the pond. majority, of sites is desirable.

53 15 All SANGS larger than 12Ha must aim to provide a M Contrasting areas from Contrasting areas from variety of habitats for users to experience. woodland to grassland and the woodland to grassland and the pond provides a special point of pond provides a special point of interest. interest. 16 Where possible it is desirable to choose sites with a D Popes meadow has a gentle Popes meadow has a gentle gently undulating topography for SANGS. slope. slope. 17 Access within the SANGS must be largely unrestricted M No internal fencing. Boundary fencing improved. No with plenty of space provided where it is possible for internal fencing. dogs to exercise freely and safely. 18 Where possible it is desirable to have a focal point such D The pond provides a natural The pond provides a natural as a view point, monument etc. within SANGS. focal point. focal point. 19 SANGS must be free from unpleasant intrusions (e.g. M No unpleasant intrusions. No unpleasant intrusions. sewage treatment works, smells etc.). 20 SANGS should have leaflets or/and websites S Site webpage and leaflet Site webpage and leaflet advertising their location to potential users. It would be available to download online. available to download online. desirable for leaflets to be distributed to new homes in the area and at entrance points and car parks.

54 APPENDIX H: BAP targets

BAP target Feasibility for Pope’s Meadow (H/M/L/?)

Cross-cutting Themes i) Every LWS to be surveyed once every 10 years H – last ecological survey in 2012 which should be sent to TVERC to update LWS records. Grassland - Enhance or restore 25ha of grassland including BAP species. H – SANG plan includes grassland enhancement

Grassland - 60% of LWS grassland to be in favourable management as H – current management puts the grassland in favourable management. defined by SD160 criteria Cross-cutting Themes i) Hold at least 20 wildlife events within the borough M – some events could be held at the site. each year Cross-cutting Themes ii) Host at least 8000 volunteer hours of habitat M – some volunteer work days could be held at the site. management works each year Woodland - 75% woodland LWS in favourable management as defined by H – current management puts the woodland in favourable management. SD160 criteria Woodland - Identify 400 veteran trees and transfer to GIS M – veteran trees need to be added.

Woodland - All public woodland sites to have at least one standing M – has two loggeries, need a standing deadwood feature deadwood feature and two loggeries Woodland - Undertake transect bat surveys at one known noctule site each L – could carry out transect here but not a regular site. year Urban - Create or enhance at least 5ha of wildflower areas including H – SANG plan includes grassland enhancement cowslips within urban greenspaces Woodland - Enhance or restore 10ha of woodland habitats including BAP M – some management might enhance woodland e.g. understorey species. planting and holly management. Urban - All public greenspace management plans to include biodiversity H – the management should be able to include at least some of the actions actions above.

55 APPENDIX I: Pope’s Meadow Quality Audit Form

All Parks & Countryside sites should have a well defined entrance with good visibility into the site. Features such as gates should be easy to use and well maintained. The site name should be shown, to include management contact details. Access within the site should be readily identifiable with good sight lines. Paths should be easy to use, well drained and clear of overhanging vegetation. Where applicable, notice boards should be well located, clean, with any information up to date. Other furniture such as litter bins and seating should be easy to use, in good condition and appropriately located.

Site Key element Rating Observations Potential Improvements feature (max 5) Entrances: • Tidy 4 Tidy, Well-signed, Obvious, Unobstructed, • Well-signed Welcoming • Obvious Partially accessible for all on aggregate path • Unobstructed through site • Welcoming • Ease of Use (disabled access, inclusive design) Signage: • Consistent 3 Wooden place sign at car park entrance in good • Provision of basic condition information to BFC Play area sign in good condition include site name; who manages the site; relevant contact details • Erected at a consistent and appropriate height • Positioned so clearly visible

Boundaries: • Defined 4 Car park wooden fence boundaries defined and in (e.g. hedges, • Well maintained good condition fences, • Good state of repair Hedges and woodland boundaries defined ditches) • Appropriate design Play area fence in good condition and materials

56 Site Key element Rating Observations Potential Improvements feature (max 5)

Access: • Defined paths 3 Aggregate path surface in good condition • Surface condition Good drainage • Good drainage Surface condition worn by pond • Clear of vegetation Soft • Areas defined 4 Landscaping • Formal planting well / Planting / maintained Grass / • Natural features Meadows: managed positively for wildlife • Management of invasive scrub Grass / meadow cut appropriate • Appropriate Areas defined grass/hay/meadow Managed for wildlife cutting regime Trees: • Good condition (no 3 Trees in good condition, no overhanging deadwood Cutback scrub by pond deadwood on paths, under-storey at reasonable height overhanging entrances, paths, boundaries) • Under-storey management • Trees managed positively for wildlife • New planting well maintained Furniture: • Consistent styles in 3 Bins, benches, seat, notice board and play (e.g. seats, keeping with site use equipment in good condition benches, i.e. formal or informal bins notice • Well maintained boards) • Well located • Easy to use • Information up to

57 Site Key element Rating Observations Potential Improvements feature (max 5) date Cleanliness: • Little or no litter 4 No litter, dog fouling, graffiti and vandalism evident. • Minimal dog fouling • Graffiti free – no offensive graffiti • Vandalism not evident

Safe and • Does the site feel 4 Good sight lines secure: safe Lit at car park • Good lines of sight to entrances and exits 32/45 TOTAL SCORE (out of 45)

58 APPENDIX J: Dog Owners/Walkers code of conduct leaflet

59 APPENDIX K: Financial management summary Introduction The Bracknell Forest Council Parks and Countryside Service directly manages approximately 386 hectares of publicly accessible land, providing a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities across approximately 80 sites. The work is completed collaboratively through public engagement and partnerships to provide residents with a network of green spaces that are shown to be well used and highly valued by the residents of Bracknell.

This financial summary presents the financial picture of the Parks and Countryside Service as a whole, in order to provide the financial background against which Green Flag Award sites are delivered.

It is not practical to separate out detailed costs for individual sites as the entire Parks and Countryside service plays a role in the retention and expansion of the number of sites formally holding a Green Flag Award. Policy In challenging financial times the delivery of any public service has to be supported within policy. Bracknell Forest Council has adopted a Council Plan 2015 – 2019 and this has identified six strategic themes. The provision of high quality parks and countryside sites is considered to support the delivery of all six themes, but most specifically relates to ‘A clean, green, growing and sustainable place’. A performance indicator within this theme is ‘Satisfaction with parks and open spaces’. The achievement of independently assessed awards is considered to be an important part of delivering and demonstrating the quality of open spaces within the borough. Performance within the Green Flag Awards is reported within the council and is widely monitored, particularly by councillors, and this underpins the financial support for the delivery of high quality open spaces. Responsibility A variety of staff share the responsibility for the financial management of the service. The Head of Parks and Countryside is ultimately accountable, with specific responsibility for budgets assigned to individual site managers through a scheme of delegation. Individual site managers specify works in accordance with the management plans, maintenance regimes or ad-hoc projects. Authorisation limits are in place for each role in the team, with higher value orders authorised by increasingly senior officers.

Within the borough council the Finance Department monitor expenditure, prepare reports and provide an internal audit function. Corporate finance officers and accountants work closely with the operational staff on budget monitoring and expenditure. Procurement Bracknell Forest Council is a large organisation with strict guidelines for the expenditure of public funds. Processes are in place for raising official works orders, paying invoices, tendering for works and so on. Purchase of goods or services are supported by multiple quotations where this can reasonably be achieved. Where appropriate, goods and services are procured through framework agreements to comply with procurement requirements for larger value works and services. Budget The Parks and Countryside expenditure in the financial year 2017/18 for revenue and capital programmes was: 2017 application 2018 application Staff costs £781,803 £776,780 Maintenance £321,802 £358,397 Vehicles £38,339 £41,350

60 Other costs £21,793 £84,460 Contractors £315,075 £162,200 Income £202,547 £130,250 Capital £321,600 £245,600 Total (Rev+cap) £2,002959 £1,799,037 Total (Rev) £1,681,359 £1,553,437 Exceptions There are many centralised functions of the borough council which are available to the Parks and Countryside Service to support the delivery of open space, but which will not show within the above budget. Examples would include: website provision, marketing and social media coverage / monitoring, health and safety,human resources expertise and information technology support. Review The borough financial management process is cyclical and includes operations for budget setting and reporting on variations to planned expenditure and this provides the mechanism by which expenditure can be matched to the actual costs experienced in delivering the commitments within the council plan. Future budgets are then adjusted to reflect the requirement.

61 APPENDIX L: Road Sign Locations

Junction of London Road and St Marks Road

Main site entrance off St Mark’s Road

62 APPENDIX M: Pope’s Meadow leaflet and website

63 Website

64 APPENDIX N: BFC volunteers policy and contact information Newt surveying i. Bracknell Forest Council, Parks & Countryside Volunteer Policy

INTRODUCTION The Parks & Countryside service is responsible for the management of parks, play areas, outdoor sports facilities, countryside sites and public rights of way across the borough. These greenspaces are managed to provide for public enjoyment; alongside the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity, heritage and landscape.

A team of Rangers is employed to co-ordinate this work, with the support of volunteers from the local community.

VOLUNTEERS Volunteers can either participate as individuals (Community Volunteers); as part of an organised group; and / or through an organised event.

There are 3 tiers within which volunteers can help:- 1. Monitoring – providing additional ‘Eyes and Ears’ e.g. walking sites; identifying and reporting issues 2. Practical tasks – e.g. planting, vegetation management, wildlife surveys, litter picking 3. Interpretation – e.g. assisting with events, educational activities, talks and public consultation.

Participation can be on a regular, or less frequent basis, and encompass either specific or borough wide locations.

Specific activities may also be organised as part of the Parks & Countryside Events Programme.

A leaflet summarising conservation volunteer groups active within Bracknell Forest is attached.

RECRUITMENT It is important to ensure that volunteering does not compromise public safety; either for the individual involved and / or the wider public.

Experience and skills needed, and level of information required, are variable according to the activity.

All activities will be risk assessed. Volunteers will only be asked to participate in tasks that are considered to be of low risk. When participating as part of a conservation group: • Activities are supervised, with a group leader present. Depending on specific group requirements, it may be appropriate for individuals to simply turn up at an agreed location and time. Contact details will need to be provided and recorded.

For Community Volunteers: • Some activities will be self led. Community volunteers may need to complete an application form. Details could include provision of character references, along with basic contact information.

65 Opportunities for participation are available to all abilities. General health and fitness requirements will vary according to the type of work being carried out. The onus is on the individual to advise Parks & Countryside of any medical issues which may have an impact. It may be necessary for volunteers to sign a form to confirm that they are unaware of any conditions affecting their health.

If volunteers are to be involved in activities that require working with children, they will need to be subject to Disclosure and receive clearance through the Criminal Records Bureau, prior to participation.

SUPPORT Volunteer activities will be co-ordinated by the Community Ranger within the Parks team. Various tasks and locations will involve other Parks & Countryside staff as appropriate.

A regular newsletter will be produced and distributed to all community volunteers and conservation groups.

Appropriate training will be provided and tools and equipment made available.

INSURANCE Community Volunteers will be covered by the Councils public liability and personal accident insurance.

Specific groups will require their own insurance cover, a copy of which should be made available to Parks & Countryside.

When volunteering, individuals will be subject to Bracknell Forest Borough Council policy and procedures including health and safety, equal opportunities, grievance, disciplinary and confidentiality.

66 APPENDIX O: Maintenance forms

Basic schedule

Units with springs: • Are all parts free from Slide units: corrosion and decay? • Are all parts free from • Are all parts securely fixed? corrosion and decay? • Is the spring and foundation in • Are all parts securely fixed? good condition? • Are there any rough edges on • Is the spring securely fitted to the lateral protection? the base? Combination units: Swing units: • Are all parts free from • Are all parts free from corrosion and decay? corrosion and decay? • Are all parts securely fixed? • Are all parts securely fixed? • Are ropes non rotating, free • Do the swings move freely and from wear and are rope links noiselessly intact? • Are chains free from wear? • Are ramps/ steps/ footholds • Is the frame secure in the secure, slip free, non-rotating ground? and accessible?

Rockers: Other checks: • Are all parts free from • Are all parts free from corrosion and decay? corrosion and decay? • Are all parts securely fixed? • Are all parts securely fixed? • Does the see-saw move freely • Are there finger traps? and noiselessly? • Are guard rails in place and secure? Carousels: • Are ramps/ steps/ footholds • Are all parts free from secure, slip free, non-rotating corrosion and decay? and accessible? • Are all parts securely fixed? • Are there any changes in • Does the carousel move freely equipment since the last 6 and noiselessly? monthly inspections? • Is the axis showing any incline?

PLEASE REFER TO BS EN 1176/ 1177 FOR MORE INFORMATION

67 Parks and Countryside 6 monthly site inspection prompt sheet o Drainage ENTRANCES o Vegetation (Including approach to site) o Gradients o Gateways o Steps o Access Points o Vehicular access o Gradients o Cycle Ways o Vehicular o Bridle Paths o Pedestrian/horse & cycle o Public Rights of Way o Erosion o Informal paths / Desire lines o Height barriers o Sight Lines NATURAL AND HERITAGE FEATURES o Trees BOUNDARIES o Planting / shrubs / lawns o Fencing o Hedgerows o Hedging o Biodiversity / Habitat management o Ditches o Archaeology o Vegetation GROUNDS MAINTENANCE o Trees o Specification o Land Encroachment o Delivery o Informal Access Points STREAM/LAKE/POND EMBANKMENTS SIGNAGE & ISLANDS o Site name o Erosion o Notice board(s) o Water Quality o Advisory Information o Vegetation o Directional / Waymarking o Levels o Interpretation o Flow / Channels o Bylaws o Lifebuoys

FURNITURE / STUCTURES SPORT & PLAY o Gates o Pitches o Stiles o Courts o Seating o Fishing o Litter / Dog Waste bins o Play Areas o Fountains o Skate Parks o Water Troughs o Wheeled Sports o Bridges o Other equipment (e.g. goal posts) o Boardwalks o Camps o Shelters o Piers and Platforms ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR o Dams o Litter o Vehicle Barriers o Graffiti o Bollards o Dog Fouling o Walls o Fly Tipping o Sculptures o Garden Waste o Vandalism CAR PARKS o Illegal Motorcycles / vehicle use o Surface Condition o Drugs / alcohol o Markings o Security

PATHS o Surface condition

68 APPENDIX P Events at Pope’s Meadow

Friday, 27 July and Sunday 2nd September 1 hour slots between 10am – 3:45pm The Big Tree Climb at Pope’s Meadow Enjoy an hour's tree climbing in one of our events, using certified safety equipment and with our qualified, friendly and experienced staff. Suitable for all from 6yrs - adult. For a private climb or party, book out all 8 tickets. Fun for all ages - climbing up into the tree canopy, see amazing views, be at one with nature and the environment, branch walk and swing from them. A truly amazing and thrilling activity. Meet: Pope’s Meadow, Off St Marks Rd, Binfield, RG42 4AY. Cost: £20. Booking required: http://www.bigtreeclimbing.co.uk/contact-us/

Thursday, 6 September, 1pm-3pm Heritage Open Day Walk at Pope’s Manor Join us on this guided tour of the grounds. Meet: Pope’s Meadow, off St Marks Road, Binfield, Bracknell, RG42 4AY Booking required T: 01344 354441

Tuesday, 16 October, at 10:30am Making Strides – a volunteer lead walk around ‘Pope’s, Peacocks & Amen’ Rambler – up to 7 miles (2½ hours) Meet: Pope’s Meadow, Off St Marks Rd, Binfield, RG42 4AY. Map ref: 844 699

Wednesday, 13 December, at 10:30am Pope’s Meadow and beyond! A ranger led walk of up to 4 miles (1¾ hours) Meet: Pope’s Meadow car park, off St Mark’s Road, Binfield, Bracknell RG42 4AY

69 APPENDIX P Risk Assessment Matrix

Reference DATE OF REVIEW RISK ASSESSMENT ASSESMENT SCHEDULE EQUIPMENT EQU 1 Tools & Equipment: Vehicle Use 24/12/2016 Three Years EQU 2 Tools & Equipment: Trailer Use 21/12/2016 Three Years EQU 3 Tools & Equipment: Petrol Driven Leaf Blower 05/08/2016 Three Years EQU 4 Tools & Equipment: Step Ladders 16/08/2015 Three Years EQU 5 Tools & Equipment: Chainsaw 10/12/2016 Three Years EQU 6 Tools & Equipment: Brushcutter / Strimmer 04/01/2017 Three Years EQU 7 Tools & Equipment: Winch 15/08/2015 Three Years EQU 8 Tools & Equipment: Hand tools 14/09/2015 Three Years EQU 9 Tools & Equipment: Bowser 22/04/2015 Three Years EQU 10 Tools & Equipment: Pedestrian Flail 25/04/2015 Three Years EQU 11 Tools & Equipment: Jet washer 04/11/2015 Three Years EQU 12 Tools & Equipment: Manual Sweeper 25/01/2017 Three Years EQU 13 Tools & Equipment: Hedge Trimmer 19/12/2016 Three Years EQU 14 Tools & Equipment: Petrol Mower 22/04/2015 Three Years EQU 15 Tools & Equipment: Grappling Hook on Rope 05/01/2017 Three Years EQU 16 Tools & Equipment: Powered pole saw 22/08/2015 Three Years EQU 17 Tools & Equipment: Abrasive Wheels 04/11/2015 Three Years EQU 18 Tools & Equipment: Chipper 06/01/2017 Three Years EQU 19 Tools & Equipment: Generator 19/08/2016 Three Years EQU 20 Tools & Equipment: Electrical Tools 22/04/2015 Three Years EQU 21 Tools & Equipment: Circular Saw 19/08/2016 Three Years EVENTS EVE 1 Events: General 24/01/2017 Three Years EVE 3 Events: Conservation 24/01/2017 Three Years EVE 5 Events: Mini-beasting 20/01/2017 Three Years EVE 7 Events: Orienteering 05/11/2015 Three Years EVE 8 Events: Pond Dipping 25/01/2017 Three Years EVE 9 Events: Survival Skills 24/12/2016 Three Years EVE 10 Events: Woodland 24/01/2017 Three Years EVE 11 Events: Craft Workshops 27/04/2015 Three Years EVE 17 Events: Food Preparation and Tasting 28/04/2015 Three Years EVE 20 Events: Accompanied Walks with dogs 14/12/2016 Three Years EVE 22 Events: Skate Park 12/08/2015 Three Years EVE 23 Events: Recreational Activities 19/12/2016 Three Years EVE 24 Events: Youth Event 12/08/2015 Three Years EVE 25 Events: Paws in the Park 16/07/2015 Annually EVE 26 Events: LCAF Site visit 26/06/2016 EVE 27 Events: Snake to school visit and talk 11/07/2016 Three Years

SITE BASED ACTIVITIES SIT 1 Site: General 05/08/2016 Three Years SIT 2 Site: Cattle Grazing 21/01/2017 Three Years SIT 3 Site: Woodland Management 28/04/2015 Three Years SIT 4 Site: Countryside Furniture 24/12/2016 Three Years SIT 5 Site: Hedge Management 31/12/2015 Three Years SIT 6 Site: Ponds, Streams, Ditches (On or Near Water) 27/04/2015 Three Years SIT 7 Site: Litter, Fly-tipping, Grafitti 12/08/2015 Three Years SIT 8 Site: Lone Working 05/08/2016 Three Years SIT 9 Site: Wet Pour on Play Areas 22/12/2015 Three Years SIT 10 Site: Painting 17/09/2015 Three Years SIT 11 Site: Working at Height 22/04/2015 Three Years SIT 12 Site: Piggy Wood 22/04/2015 Three Years SIT 13 Site: Play Areas 22/04/2015 Three Years SIT 14 Site: Height Barriers 27/04/2015 Three Years

70 SIT 15 Site: Pest Control (Rats) 05/01/2016 Three Years SIT 17 Site: School Visits 20/01/2017 Three Years SIT 18 Site: Tree Planting 24/12/2016 Three Years SIT 19 Site: Westmorland Park (Courts and Pitches) 24/01/2017 Three Years SIT 20 Site: Bonfires 07/09/2017 Three Years SIT 22 Site: Pesticide and Herbicide Application 25/04/2015 Three Years SIT 23 Site: Removal of Life Buoys 07/09/2017 Three Years VOLUNTEERS VOL 1 Volunteers: Work experience 22/04/2015 Three Years VOL 3 Volunteers: Path Inspectors 01/12/2015 Three Years VOL 4 Volunteers: Surveys 22/04/2015 Three Years VOL 5 Community Payback (Probation) 15/07/2015 Three Years

71 REFERENCES

Pope’s Meadow web page https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parks-and-countryside/parks-visit/popes-meadow

Bracknell Forest Ramblers Route https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/countryside-walks/ramblers-route-long-distance-route

Site SANG Management Plan https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parks-and-countryside/suitable-alternative- natural-greenspaces

Bracknell Forest Residents Survey 2017 https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parks-and-countryside/suitable-alternative- natural-greenspaces

Countryside conservation https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parks-and-countryside/countryside-conservation

Parks and Countryside events https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parks-and-countryside/events

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