The Strawberry Line DRAFT MANAGEMENT PLAN
2011-2015
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CONTENTS
Page Page 1.0 INTRODUCTION 4.0 ANALYSIS OF ISSUES 1.1 Purpose of plan 1 4.1 Site Analysis 35-36 4.2 Qualitative Assessment 36-39 2.0 POLICY CONTEXT 2-3 5.0 VISION, AIMS, OBJECTIVES & ACTION PLAN 5.1 Vision 39 3.0 SITE DECSRIPTION 5.2 Aims 39-40 3.1 Location and access 3 5.3 1 and 5 year priorities 40-41 3.2 Relationship to green infrastructure 4 5.4 5 year action plan 42-56 3.3 Ownership and Designations 4-5 6.0 FINANCE 3.4 History 7-8 6.1 Existing expenditure 57 3.5 Overview of the park today 8-9 6.2 Aspirations 57 3.6 Mapping the park 9-21 7.0 MONITORING & REVIEW 58 3.7 Description of Key Features 22-33 3.8 Detailed site statistics 34 APPENDICES 3.9 Existing management arrangements 35 Appendix 1: Partnership groups and their relationship to 59-60 the Strawberry Line Appendix 2: Verge cutting prescriptions map 61 Appendix 3: Freehold and permissive routes map 62-63 Appendix 4: Woodborough Green map 64 Appendix 5: Gang Wall map 65 Appendix 6: Flora and fauna in the Winscombe area map 66 Appendix 7: Proposed milestone markers map 67 Appendix 8: CVRWS Byelaws 68-74 Appendix 9: Halcrow report of SSSI (2007) Appendix 10: Access Controls to the Strawberry Line Appendix 11: Shute Shelf Tunnel Principal Inspection
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose of the plan
The need for site management plans has been identified as a key issue in the recent Green Infrastructure Strategy for the District1. This is the second management plan that has been written for The Strawberry Line. It covers the period 2011 – 2015.
This plan has been prepared in order to provide a framework within which all future management is carried out; and enable any person involved to understand how and why decisions are taken. It identifies specific objectives and priorities for management within the next five years, and sets out aspirations that may be delivered in the future. For the detailed action plan, see pages 42- 56.
Following the consultation a final management plan will then be prepared which will determine the future management of The Strawberry Line from 2011 – 2015.
The structure of the plan has been developed using existing good practice including CABE Space’s ‘Guide to producing Green Space Management Plans’2, and guidance within Green Flag3.
The draft plan has been prepared specifically as a consultation document so that partners, local residents and park users are engaged with the site’s ongoing management.
1 North Somerset Council’s Green Infrastructure strategy can be found at www.n-somerset.gov.uk
2 CABE Space promotes well-designed parks, streets and squares as a crucial part of our towns and cities. Its publications can be found at www.cabe.org.uk/default.aspx?contentitemid=484 3 The Green Flag is the national standard for parks in England and Wales. More information can be found at www.greenflagaward.org.uk
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2.0 POLICY CONTEXT
The Council’s Green Infrastructure Strategy is the primary document describing the need for management plans to deliver the objectives for land under its management. It defines green infrastructure as:
“… the network of parks, open spaces, waterways, woodlands, trees, countryside, green corridors and the coastal strip within and between our towns and villages, across the whole of North Somerset.”
The following relates to the key headline areas described in the Sustainable Community Strategy4 and the North Somerset Council Corporate Plan5.
North Somerset Council’s corporate plan draws from the community strategy and highlights key aims for the council. The Green Infrastructure contributes to a number of these priorities, including:
• Enhancing health and well-being • Protecting and improving the environment • Building safer and stronger communities
The council has also identified nine key areas where it plans to focus its efforts until 2011 and several of these priorities relate specifically to the role of Green Infrastructure:
• Address environmental concerns. • Make our streets and communities safer. • Ensure development is well planned, with a focus on creating quality facilities and employment opportunities. • Improve customer services.
North Somerset Council has a Play Strategy6 that identifies a number of important priorities for play in North Somerset. One of the key priorities is to 'develop and improve more neighbourhood play opportunities in the parks and open spaces epically for the 10 -16
4 www.northsomersetpartnership.co.uk 5 http://www.n-somerset.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/8E8E9677-D982-4DA9-8468- 1AC17DB765E0/0/publication_20080820_CorporatePlan20082011.pdf 2 The Strawberry Line Draft Management Plan March 2011 year olds that are accessible, sustainable and to promote the use of the natural open spaces.' As stated in the Design for Play guidance.
In 2006, the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act was introduced for all public bodies to conserve and enhance biodiversity 7 under this duty. To meet this obligation, the local authority needs to ensure that appropriate management for biodiversity is undertaken on its landholdings. Green infrastructure management plans provide a practical mechanism for meeting this obligation, as they include aspirations and actions for biodiversity.
Management of open spaces that contain locally important habitats and species can also contribute directly to aims of the North Somerset Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) – Action for Nature.8 Management plans present opportunities to implement some of the actions within the LBAP, so that priority habitats and species are taken into account in the management of green spaces.
3.0 SITE DESCRIPTION
3.1 Location and access (Map 1)
The Strawberry Line Heritage Trail follows the dismantled Cheddar Valley Railway Line from Yatton Railway Station (ST4265), to the West of Yatton and Congresbury, running South to Sandford. The trail continues South through Sandford and Winscombe (ST4157) to Shute Shelve Tunnel at the A38. The Strawberry Line continues beyond the A38 into Cheddar (Somerset), where it is owned and managed by the Cheddar Valley Railway Walk Society (CVRWS).
The 8 mile long line is physically broken in a number of places by the A370, A368 and minor roads.
The Strawberry Line provides permissive access for walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users, with access points in the villages of Yatton, Congresbury, Sandford and Winscombe. Parking is available in the villages of Yatton, Congresbury and Winscombe. Horse riding is permitted on a trial basis on a one mile section between Congresbury and Sandford.
3.2 Relationship to other green infrastructure
6 See http://www.n-somerset.gov.uk/Education/Childcare+learning+and+play/leafletsandpublications/play.htm for a link to North Somerset Play Strategy 7 Biodiversity, or biological diversity, refers to the number of species of plants and animals in a given habitat. 8 See https://www.n-somerset.gov.uk/Environment/Conservation/Wildlife/ for link to Action for Nature
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The Strawberry Line is an important green corridor in North Somerset, providing connections between towns and the surrounding countryside. The line falls within the Somerset Levels and Moors landscape which is recognised as being nationally important for its ecolog ical and historical interest. From Sandford to the A38 the line runs through the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The line provides important habitats for a variety of locally and nationally important flora and fauna, and is designated as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and Local Wildlife Site (LWS) for the majority of its length. There is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) between Yatton and the A370 at Congresbury which includes a number of UK BAP Priority Habitats e.g. Reedbed and coastal floodplain and grazing marsh. Further south, the line adjoins Puxton Moor SSSI and there is a Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Site (RIGS) within Shute Shelve Tunnel.
The line provides an important recreational facility for local residents and visitors, especially dog walkers and cyclists. It is designated as part of the National Cycle Network and provides links with additional routes in this network, and surrounding public footpaths - providing extensive access for sustainable travel. The line also attracts tourism from the wider area, and is enjoyed by people who visit the line for recreation and rural retreat.
3.3 Ownership and designations
3.3.1 Typology
The Strawberry Line is designated as a “Green Corridor”. The Green Infrastructure Strategy states that the management of these sites should maximise their social, environmental and economic potential.
3.3.2 Ownership
North Somerset Council (NSC) is the freeholder of the majority of the site from Yatton Station to the A38. Ownership of the line is not continuous, but permissive access from other landowners allows a continuous route (see appendix 3).
3.3.3 Legal issues
The Strawberry Line is protected in the Replacement Local Plan under policy T/1 – Existing and proposed railway lines and T/8 – Strategic cycle routes. The Replacement Local Plan Recognises the importance of the disused railway line for its nature conservation value and its recreational potential. The importance of the line will continue to be reflected in the emerging Core Strategy.
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The majority of the line within North Somerset Council ownership is designated as a LNR under Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, and amended by Schedule 11 of the NERC Act 2006.
The Biddle SSSI which runs between Yatton station and the A370 was designated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) in 1994.
In addition to the policies outlined in the Local Plan the Strawberry line is subject to specific byelaws (see appendix 8).
The majority of the line (except the section between Sandford and Congresbury) is designated as a LWS, and Shute Shelve tunnel contains an area of exposed tufa, which is designated as a RIGS. These are both non statutory designations that are included in the Local Plan. Positive management of these sites will contribute towards NSC meeting Local Biodiversity Indicator NI197 targets for implementing positive conservation management to ensure biodiversity enhancement.
3.3.4 Leases, covenants and land charges
There are various charges and covenants associated with the Land along the line. These are generally around accommodation accesses that relate to the former railway line. Details are held by North Somerset Council.
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Map 1 Location of Green Corridor
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3.4 History of the Green Corridor
The Cheddar Valley Railway was built by the Bristol and Exeter Railway Company as part of the Great Western Railway in the 1860s. The line ran from Yatton to Winscombe and on to Cheddar and Wells. After operating for nearly a century, passenger trains ceased in 1963 and the railway finally closed in 1965.
Through natural succession the Strawberry Line has developed a variety of interesting habitats that are home to a diversity of flora and fauna. The line has become an important Green Corridor for people and wildlife alike. Unlike most of the surrounding landscape, it has not been subjected to intensive agricultural management - the rhynes are of high wildlife value and the grassland and scrub provide habitats for mammals, small birds, amphibians and invertebrates.
In 1978, the CVRWS was formed with the aim of safeguarding the line as a walking route and wildlife site. Following the purchase of the line by North Somerset Council (then Woodspring District Council) in 1983 the CVRWS began work developing a walking route along the line and managing the railway corridor for wildlife.
In the 1990s the section of the line between Winscombe and the A38 (and on to Cheddar in the District of Sedgemoor) was upgraded to provide a trail for walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users.
In 1994 the Biddle Street SSSI 9 was designated to include most of the section of the line between Yatton Station and the A370. In 1999 the Yatton and Congresbury Wildlife Action Group (YACWAG) were formed. YACWAG share management responsibility with NSC and Natural England for the SSSI section of the Strawberry Line. In 1999 the line was designated a LNR under the North Somerset Local Plan.
Since 2003 NSC has worked in partnership with CVRWS, YACWAG and Parish Councils to develop a large scale project successfully securing grant aid to carry out the following:
• Surfacing improvements to the trail between Yatton Station and the A38 at Shute Shelve (with associated access controls) to develop the line as a multi-user trail. • The purchase of part of the former station site at Congresbury to establish a continuous route. • Construction of easy access ramps at Station Road, Sandford and Ilex lane and Woodborough Road, Winscombe.
9 http://www.sssi.naturalengland.org.uk/citation/citation_photo/1006788.pdf
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• Installation of directional signage. • Installation of solar powered lighting in Shute Shelve Tunnel • Installation of Toucan Road Crossings on the A370 and A368. • A variety of habitat management works including coppicing, hedge planting, hedge laying and rhyne restoration.
3.5 Overview of the green corridor today
Maps 2a - 2l show the existing layout of the green corridor.
The line is managed in partnership with a number of agencies and organisations (see section 3.9) and supports a diverse flora and fauna. It is recognised for its ecological, historical and recreational interest, providing important Links between towns and the countryside within North Somerset.
The Strawberry Line is divided into two distinct landscapes:
Yatton Station to North of Nye Road
• Biddle Street SSSI runs from Yatton Station to the A370 at Congresbury • The surrounding landscape is characteristic Levels and Moors - flat, low-lying pasture intersected and drained by a network of rhynes • The track bed is on a slightly raised embankment with rhynes running either side. Culverts allow water to pass underneath in places • The rhynes support a rich variety of plant and invertebrate species both within the water and on the banks • Hedgerows and pollarded willows are a prominent landscape feature
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South of Nye Road to A38
• The railway line begins to take on a different physical character as the land begins to gently rise from the Levels and Moors • The surrounding landscape becomes drier with tall hedgerows and occasional orchards • Further south the landscape changes from being very open and instead continues through cuttings and on high embankments • South of Shute Shelve tunnel the railway is situated on a high limestone grassy embankment and is once again fairly open • The different micro-climates provided by cuttings and more open embankments leads to a contrasting diversity of flora compared to the Levels and Moors landscape • A strong urban influence in the flora can be observed, for example there is an abundance of Stinging Nettles in certain areas
3.6 Mapping the Strawberry Line
The green corridor has been mapped in detail using MapInfo, a Geographical Information System (GIS) which includes mapping software and a database to plot all the features from Yatton to Winscombe as follows:
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Map 2a Revision due in 2011
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Map 2b
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Map 2c
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Map 2d
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Map 2e
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Map 2f
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Map 2g
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Map 2h
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Map 2i
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Map 2j
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Map 2k
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Map 2l
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3.7 Description of key features
Flora Description Key Management Issues Yatton Station to North of Nye Road In the past inconsistent cutting of verges The plants that flourish on and adjacent to the has led to a dominance of rank grasses trackbed are generally calcareous in nature and nettles. Regular cutting and removal of (with Wild Carrot and Wild Parsnip) due to the arisings will enhance botanical diversity. limestone chippings that formed the track ballast. Generally irregular cutting and lack of Cutting and removing arisings from the line grazing has led to dominance of rank grasses, is more costly than flailing and so the such as False Oat-grass, and Cock’s-foot with challenge is to manage areas of high frequent Creeping Cinquefoil and Tufted biological interest by cutting and removal of Vetch. arisings, and to maintain the remaining sections by flailing. Tall herb habitats are frequent along the Strawberry line. These are generally Dog fouling continues to be an issue, dominated by Great Willowherb, Common particularly near Yatton Station. This needs Nettle, Comfrey, Meadowsweet, Hemp to be addressed in order to carry out cut- Agrimony and Reed Nettle-grass. and-remove grass cutting operations.
South of Nye Road to A38 The area between Shute Shelve tunnel and Adjacent to the trackbed throughout this A38 is of prime importance for flora in the section Ragwort, Bramble and Common Nettle verges. Therefore this section should be are present. Intermittent areas are cut and arisings removed (see appendix 2). characterised by short turf grazed by rabbits with scrub and bramble encroachment.
At the entrances to Shute Shelve Tunnel, the flora is interesting and varied. Close to the tunnel it is relatively dark and damp giving rise to plants that favour these conditions such as mosses, ferns, lichens and liverworts. Species
22 The Strawberry Line Draft Management Plan March 2011 recorded include Harts Tongue Fern, Maidenhair Spleenwort, Male Fern, Polypody and Bracken. Other flora present includes Herb Robert, Lords and Ladies, Nettle- leaved Bellflower and Wall Rue. As the cutting widens out the amount of shading is not so heavy and Yellow Archangel, Field Woodrush and Carnation Grass are present.
South of Shute Shelve Tunnel on the grassy embankments, the soil is thin and the diverse calcareous grassland is mixed in with patches of bare ballast. Amongst the species rich turf Creeping cinquefoil, Yarrow, Hedge Bedstraw, Birdsfoot Trefoil and Red Fescue are present.
See appendix 6 for map showing important and interesting flora and fauna in the Winscombe area
Trees Description Key Management Issues
Wooded cuttings are present between the Protect trees from damage South of Nye Road and the A38, mainly consisting of Hazel, Blackthorn, Oak and Ash. The Holm Oak trees found on the steep There is often a canopy across the line in these embankments North and South of Shute areas resulting in a damp woodland feel, with Shelve Tunnel are non-native - ground flora that are associated with this type of consideration should be given to their habitat. removal.
Trees emphasize the natural environment by The Strawberry Line will be the subject of a creating a variety of habitats and opportunities 'walkover' survey every 4 years from 2010. for wildlife. They also offer us the opportunity
23 The Strawberry Line Draft Management Plan March 2011 for recreation and escape, and inspire our Risk management must strike a balance imaginations and creativity. between removing unacceptable hazards from higher traffic areas, and retaining Trees have the potential to help manage features for their ecological and amenity flooding and reduce soil erosion. They provide value, in areas that are less frequented. shade and limit the 'urban heat island effect' which will become increasingly important in a warming climate. They also remove pollutants and act as a carbon sink, helping us to adapt to climate change.
Tree management will aim to increase canopy cover and to maintain a whole cross section of tree ages to help maintain a healthy and long living tree population.
Hedgerows Description Key Management Issues Hedgerows are a prominent feature adjacent to Management will aim to maintain and where the rhynes. In places these are thick and possible enhance the quality of the hedges strong, act as a visual screen and provide a for wildlife. Managing hedges woodland edge effect. Some of the reeded sympathetically and increasing their ditches combined with a dense hedge, provide connectivity will provide corridors for wildlife a good habitat for breeding birds, but are such as bats and dormice. otherwise poor in terms of structure and diversity. In other stretches the hedgerows are Where hedges run alongside rhynes, a gappy, which allows more light onto the ditches. balance in management is needed as heavy shading impacts upon the nature Hedge pruning by hand South of Congresbury the lack of hedgerows conservation interest of open water habitats. and the presence of more mature trees is noticeable. Management will take place outside of the
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bird nesting season.
Rhynes Description Key Management Issues The variety in the state of the ditches provides YACWAG management has successfully good habitat diversity. Ditches outside the SSSI achieved a varied structure but efforts must are managed by the IDB annually, and those be maintained to ensure the IDBs continue within the SSSI are managed by YACWAG on a sympathetic management. longer rotation to encourage species diversity. Natural England has set a target of no more The ditches adjacent to the track are dominated than 20% scrub shading of rhynes along the by Common Reed along with Reed Sweet- Strawberry Line (see Appendix 9). grass, Reedmace and Reed Canary-grass. In places the rhynes are more open, deep and steep sided, generally where the local IDBs undertake annual clearance. In other areas they are in the later stages of succession and completely scrubbed over.
In selected stretches aquatic and marginal plants are found including Marsh Marigold, Water Mint, Common Water-starwort, Yellow Open area of rhyne along the Flag Iris, Frogbit, Lesser Pondweed, Stonewort, Strawberry Line Purple Loosestrife and Common Fleabane.
Where ditches have been cleared of scrub in the recent past, tall wetland communities have developed including Comfrey, Meadowsweet, Great Willow herb and Bittersweet.
Reedbed Description Key Management Issues Reedbed is a UK Priority Habitat, forming an Management will seek to maintain a important habitat for a variety of birds such as succession of habitats to maintain and
25 The Strawberry Line Draft Management Plan March 2011 reed and sedge warbler. enhance biodiversity (see Appendix 9). There is an extensive reedbed consisting mainly of Common Reed adjacent to the site of Litter can build up in this area and end up Congresbury Station that, in the past was cut in the water. for thatch. This is probably one of the largest reedbeds in North Somerset.
This reedbed was not cut for many years and was subject to encroachment by goat willow. In 2009 50% of the goat willow around the reedbed was cleared in order to commence Viewing platform over the restored reedbed reedbed restoration.
The reedbed restoration project was completed in February 2010, funded by YANSEC, YACWAC and CVRWS. An interpretation board and seating were also installed.
Restored reedbed Scrub Description Key Management Issues Scrub forms a valuable habitat on the line with In some areas scrub encroachment is a areas of scrub dominated by Bramble, problem. Scrub should be prevented from Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Goat Willow. encroaching on footpaths and habitats of conservation value e.g. rhynes and where There are some dense stands of blackthorn rare plants are present. and goat willow and in other places scrub growth is limited. This may be attributed to However it is an important feature for localised grazing in the past. wildlife and where it is to remain, a diverse age structure should be maintained to Scrub boundary Bramble in hedges is an important feature for provide maximum benefits.
26 The Strawberry Line Draft Management Plan March 2011 dormice, butterflies and birds.
Mammals Description Key Management Issues Yatton Station to North of Nye Road All works affecting protected species must Rabbits, badgers, moles, foxes and grey obtain the appropriate licenses. squirrels have been observed on this section of the line.
The Noctule bat and Pipistrelle bat have been observed, but no known roosts have been identified.
South of Nye Road to A38 There is much evidence of rabbit grazing on this section. Several badger setts are situated adjacent to the line in this section and badgers use the line as their foraging area. Roe Deer are often seen along this section of the line.
Bats have been recorded in the tunnel but are not thought to use it as a roosting site. Soprano pipistrelle, Common pipistrelle, Myotis bat and Brown long-eared bat have been recorded.
Dormice were recorded in a Hazel dominated cutting to the north of Shute Shelve Tunnel in the 1980s. Survey tubes were monitored in 2004/05 but no Dormice were recorded.
Birds Description Key Management Issues Picture Yatton Station to North of Nye Road Management of scrub and hedges to take
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Birds associated with the reeds breed along the place outside of the bird nesting season line including Reed bunting, Reed warbler and Sedge warbler. Where possible, management will seek to maintain and enhance the habitats for these Other birds associated with the line include species. Long-tailed tit, Goldfinch, Cuckoo, and Whitethroat. Sparrow hawk, Peregrine and Kestrel have been observed flying overhead.
Barn owls nest in boxes on the adjacent YACWAG reserve.
South of Nye Road to A38 With the dark, enclosed nature of the cuttings many garden and woodland birds are found in this section. These include house sparrows, willow warblers and both greater spotted woodpecker and green woodpecker. Buzzards have been regularly recorded flying overhead.
Reptiles and Amphibians Description Key Management Issues Picture Yatton Station to North of Nye Road All works affecting protected species must There is a deep pond to the West of the line obtain the appropriate licenses. near the end of Biddle Street (Map 3a) which is connected to the Rhyne System. The pond is Ponds, rhynes and grassland habitats need very important for breeding Common Toads. to be managed appropriately in order to maintain and enhance their value for Common Frogs and Smooth Newts have been amphibians and reptiles. recorded west of Yatton station and near the reedbed at Congresbury Station. Some ponds have dried up and need to be dug out e.g. Fuller’s Lane Pond Close to Yatton Station, the embankments of
28 The Strawberry Line Draft Management Plan March 2011 the railway consist of a reasonably long rank of Existing ponds should be assessed to see if grassland where grass-snakes have been they require dredging. recorded. Slow worms favour the damper conditions adjacent to the rhynes.
South of Nye Road to A38 Adders have been observed basking on the sunny slopes south of Shute Shelve Tunnel.
Slow worms are present along the whole of this section.
Great Crested newts were recorded near the line in 2001.
Invertebrates Description Key Management Issues Yatton Station to North of Nye Road Habitats should be managed The line close to Yatton Station is good for appropriately to maintain their butterflies with Marbled white, Brown argus, invertebrate interest. Small copper and Large skipper recorded. The butterflies use the plants associated with the Updating the species record would railway for feeding and breeding. enable management to consider the full range of species Moths recorded include the Lunar hornet, Cinnabar and Drinker.
A number of dragonflies are associated with the rhyne system adjacent to the railway including Hairy dragonfly, and Southern hawker. Short-winged conehead,
Great green bush-cricket, Lesser marsh Peacock butterfly 29 The Strawberry Line Draft Management Plan March 2011 grasshopper and meadow grasshoppers are present.
Glow worms have been recorded south of Congresbury.
South of Nye Road to A38 The warm grassy slopes south of the tunnel are good places to observe butterflies in the summer. Small white, Peacock, Comma, and painted lady are present
Cave spiders inhabit the RIGS at Shute Shelve Tunnel and Glow worms have been recorded North and South of Shute Shelve Tunnel, especially in the Fuller’s Lane region
Archaeological and historical features Description Key Management Issues There are no Scheduled Monuments in the All historical features should be protected vicinity. However, the railway bisects Gang from deterioration. Wall (see appendix 5), an ancient sea defence which has been recommended for Scheduled Structures (tunnels, brides and culverts) Ancient Monument status. There is also along the line under NSC ownership are evidence of Roman occupation at milepost 31 inspected by NSC Structures Team. (appendix 7). Principal Inspections are carried out at 6 year intervals, with general inspections The former station at Congresbury is managed every two years between. Shute Shelve as a natural site with access along the track bed Tunnel had its last Principal Inspection Ilex Lane bridge between the platforms. The platforms have not carried out in 2007 (See Appendix 11). been restored but are maintained in state of ‘managed retreat’ to prevent further The roof of Shute Shelve tunnel contains a deterioration. Sandford and Winscombe tufa exposure which is designated as a
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Stations are not owned by NSC. RIGS. This does not require the usual management for a rock face such as There are 2 bridges over the line at Ilex Lane vegetation clearance and safety checks as it and Broadleaze north of Winscombe. is highly unlikely to fall, but needs to be considered if any works are undertaken on The line crosses Woodborough Road in the tunnel. Winscombe over the only remaining railway bridge on the line.
Shute Shelve Tunnel takes the line through the The former station at Congresbury
Mendip Hills. In 2006 Low level, solar powered lighting (which is triggered by movement) was installed along the length of the floor to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians, but not to disturb the cave spiders and bats.
RIGS: Tufa exposure in Shute Shelve Tunnel
Paths Description Key Management Issues The Strawberry line provides approximately 8 The stone-dust path requires regular miles of surfaced trail for walkers, cyclists and resurfacing and maintenance – filling wheelchair users and 1 mile is used by horse potholes and removing encroaching riders. vegetation.
The path width is not consistent for the length of All structures will require regular checking the line as NSC does not own the whole length. for deterioration and/or damage. Between the A38 at Shute Shelf and the A370 in Congresbury the trail is surfaced to a width of Byway Open All Traffic (BOAT) application Path at Winscombe
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3 metres. Between the A370 and Yatton legal issues to be resolved before any Station the trail is surfaced to a width of 2 further extension of the bridleway is metres with occasional passing places due to considered SSSI constraints.
There are 3 access ramps leading to the trail and 5 sets of steps.
Access Controls Description Key Management Issues Along the trail access is controlled by Some of these access controls reduce the Motorcycle barriers, heavy duty vehicle barriers, attractiveness of the route for some users. gates, bollards and boulders. Issues raised in the ‘Access to the Strawberry Line’ report (Appendix 10) need There are three sets of cattle grids along the to be addressed. line. Existing grids are small, and may not always be effective in restricting cattle Cattle are able to jump over the existing movement. small cattle grids. There is a particular problem at the northern end of the line, where cattle have been able to reach the station platform at Yatton.
Cyclist passing through motorcycle barrier
Seating Description Key Management Issues There are 12 wooden benches along the line, Partner groups have identified a need for all are in acceptable condition. additional seating in the Congresbury and Sandford areas.
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Signage Description Key Management Issues Directional signage guides people along the Comments have been made that existing trail giving distances to the main villages. user code of conduct signs are inadequate as they are too small. Pedestrians would New Interpretation signage and associated like to see cyclists asked to ring bell or give artwork was installed in March 2010. audible warning. There should be some reference to respect of wildlife and flowers e.g. “Take only photos leave only footprints.”
New interpretation sign at Winscombe Bins Description Key Management Issues There are 6 dog bins located along the line, all Consideration should be given to introducing are in acceptable condition. further dog bins and litter bins at the main entrances to the line. There are no litter bins under NSC ownership, however a litter bin is provided at Millennium Introducing bins along the length of the line Green. could detract from the countryside feel, and people may be less inclined to take their litter home with them
Dog bin at Congresbury Station
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3.8 Detailed site statistics
A detailed asset survey was undertaken along the green corridor, the following is a summary of key features recorded:
Soft and hard landscape features Area (m2)
• 33% of the line is dominated by tall grass (conservation areas) 111,646 • 24% is scrub (scrub areas include small areas of rough grass and tall herbs) 83493 • 19% consists of copse areas (where the majority of cover is trees) 63902 • The track covers 10% of the site 34644 • 8% is rhynes 29078
Boundaries and associated infrastructure Length (m)
Fencing (Wood) 1507
Vehicle Barrier 8 Furniture Number
Advisory Signs 6 Arch 1 Benches 12 Bollards 11 Boulders 14 Dog Bins 6 Foot Bridge 1 Gates 9 Interpretative Signs 6 Mosaics (Public Art) 1 Motorcycle Restrictor 6
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3.9 Existing management arrangements
Management of the Strawberry line is the responsibility of North Somerset Council working in partnership with other agencies and community groups (which make up the management committee) including Natural England, Sustrans, YACWAG, CVRWS, Brandon Trust, NSC Youth Offending Team, Trails Trust, Millennium Green Trust and Parish Councils (appendix 1). Between 2004 and 2009 management was delivered through the Strawberry Line Heritage Trail project with a dedicated project officer in post. From 2009 onwards management will be delivered through a number of officers in the Natural Environment Service.
A twice yearly verge cut is carried out ½ a meter either side of the path by contractors, but no long standing contract is in place at present. Areas for cutting and removing arisings have been identified (see appendix 2 for map) in order to maintain and enhance floristic diversity, but this can not be implemented until issues of dog fouling have been addressed and funding is available.
4.0 ANALYSIS OF ISSUES
4.1 Site Analysis
The following section summarises an assessment of ‘what are we doing well’ and ‘where could we improve’. The analysis has been informed by considering the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) related to the site.
What are we doing well? Where could we improve? • The Strawberry Line is extremely well used by walkers, • There are some conflicts between different users of the trail cyclists and wheelchair users. The trail is particularly • The verges are dominated by rank grasses and nettles popular for families with young children. • Some areas are subject to litter, vandalism and misuse, this • The Strawberry Line is generally well maintained and free needs to be addressed from litter • There are issues of dog fouling which need addressing • A range of habitats are present and managed positively to • There is a lack of seating provision along the line support a variety of species • Site marketing needs to be improved to bring in more visitors • There are strong Links with partner groups and the local and encourage use of sustainable transport community who contribute to the positive management of • Bridle way access covers only a small stretch of the line
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the line • More of the community could be encouraged to get involved • YACWAG have purchased adjoining land to manage this • Some of the current access controls are inadequate or to enhance the nature conservation interest of the site reduce the attractiveness of the route for some users. • The Line links up towns in North Somerset and provides a • Signage needs improving at various locations along the line continuous route for wildlife, for recreation and • We need to address access issues at Biddle Street sustainable transport • There are encroachment issues which need resolving • Securing funding for conservation projects such as the reedbed restoration works at Congresbury. • Provision of Interpretation signage to encourage understanding and appreciation of the line • There is a strong vision for the future that will guide positive management of the line for people and wildlife – projects have been identified to target resources and secure funding
4.2 Qualitative assessment – This describes the present condition of the green corridor
4.2.1 A Welcoming Place The Strawberry Line is a very welcoming place within the context of an informal Green Corridor site. Entrances from Winscombe and Congresbury are particularly clear and welcoming. New interpretation panels and artworks were installed along the line in 2010 and a new leaflet has been produced, this has further improved the welcome of the site.
There is scope for further enhancements at the Yatton station entrance to make this more apparent to visitors.
4.2.2 Healthy, Safe and Secure Overall the Strawberry Line is a very safe place to visit. The Heritage Trail project has widened and improved the surface of the trail and cleared encroaching vegetation to provide clearer site lines. The improvements and resulting increase in user numbers have enhanced the sense of safety on the site.
There are some issues that need to be addressed: • Dog fouling • Issues where the line meets highways – signage is needed to make cyclists aware of traffic and traffic aware of cyclists • To the rear of the Grove in Winscombe a sharp corner has poor visibility that needs to be addressed.
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• In particular where the Strawberry Line meets the A370. The bridge over the River Yeo would provide a solution to this, but in the mean time a path alongside the river would provide a safe, alternative route that will be maintained even after a bridge is built.
4.2.3 Clean and well maintained In general the Strawberry Line is clean and well maintained with the path in good condition and structures and signage in good order.
The main problems are: • Dog fouling • Vandalism and damage to the natural habitat e.g. trees • Encroachment onto the Strawberry Line and dumping garden waste
The installation of milepost markers could provide the combined benefit of being used as markers for verge cutting, as well as for users to identify their location and how far they have travelled.
4.2.4 Sustainability North Somerset Council has a Mainstreaming Sustainability Action Plan. It has been developed to assist with the integration of sustainability principles into all of the Council’s policies, services and activities10.
The Green Infrastructure strategy describes delivery of these objectives which are summarised here:
• Enhance biodiversity • No pesticide use without risk assessment • No peat or other unsustainable growing mediums • Green waste is recycled • Grass collection minimised • Energy efficient transport utilised • Mitigate against climate change • Increase use of recycled materials
10 Follow link for corporate approach http://www.n-somerset.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/D87C0D1F-BD18-4364-A245- 2BD2E9B1063C/0/strategy_SustainabilityActionPlan200609.pdf
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4.2.5 Conservation and Heritage The Strawberry Line is a key site for people to have contact with the relics of the Victorian railway age.
A number of partner groups and volunteers work hard along the line to carry out practical habitat management tasks, species surveys and fundraising for conservation projects. The SSSI section continues to be brought into positive management, but a specific grass cutting regime for this area and the rest of the line needs to be implemented in order to enhance botanical diversity.
4.2.6 Community Involvement Community involvement has been very strong in the delivery of the Strawberry Line Heritage Trail Project. Local communities have been involved through consultation in determining the outcomes of the project and have had the opportunity to contribute to the interpretation strategy.
Voluntary groups continue to play an instrumental role in the positive management of the line, but there is room to improve further community involvement through consultation, events and activities.
Woodborough Green at Winscombe has been ‘adopted’ by Sidcot School to develop as a community orchard (see Appendix 4 for map).
4.2.7 Marketing The Heritage Trail project has completely renewed the marketing of the line. On site interpretation and an associated leaflet are nearing completion.
There is still a need to improve site marketing to bring in more visitors and encourage use of sustainable transport. The Line is a valuable asset in North Somerset, and its potential for recreational use and tourism has not been utilised to its full potential. Additional marketing opportunities should be explored.
4.2.8 Management The Strawberry line has not had a current management plan since 2002. This management plan will guide future management of the green corridor - key to meeting this objective is ongoing review and monitoring to determine if the plan is being implemented effectively.
A key issue to delivering effective management of the line will be to develop and implement an effective system and procedures for dealing with reports.
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The positive management of the line will be carried forward by NSC, working alongside the management committee
5.0 VISION, AIMS, OBJECTIVES & ACTION PLAN
This section uses the analysis of the park made in previous sections as follows:
• to re-enforce the vision for the green corridor; • to summarise the overall aims for the green corridor for the next 5 years; • to summarise our 1 year and 5 year priorities for the green corridor; • to provide a detailed one year action plan for the green corridor with aims, objectives and actions, as illustrated below:
5.1 Vision -This is the outcome we want to see from positive management of the Strawberry Line:
“To provide and maintain a high quality green corridor that provides safe access facilities and promotes understanding and enjoyment of natural and cultural heritage”.
5.2 Aims - This is how we plan to achieve the Vision, by focusing on a number of important key areas:
A Welcoming Place Sustainability Community Involvement • To ensure that the Strawberry Line is • To adopt environmental management • To recognise and encourage further welcoming and accessible to all principles and therefore reduce the community involvement along the possible users impact of management operations on green corridor through consultation, the environment events and activities Healthy, Safe and Secure Conservation Marketing • To take all reasonable measures to • To protect and enhance the • To actively promote the Strawberry ensure the safety all of staff and users biodiversity of the Line through Line to all potential users. of the line. appropriate management.
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• Maintain the SSSI section in favourable condition Clean and Well Maintained Heritage Management • To maintain high standards of • Maintain the strategic significance and • To provide a responsive, flexible and management, cleanliness, and site historical integrity of the line – its high quality management service. maintenance. historic features, views and vistas. Development • Develop the Strawberry Line as a spine for extension into other areas e.g. Wells, Wrington and Clevedon.
Partner groups will help to achieve the vision, by focusing on the key areas and working towards the aspirations (page 37) for the Strawberry Line. See appendix 1 for list of partner groups and their roles.
5.3 Summary of 1 and 5 year priorities
This section summarises our priorities for 2010, and sets out our aspirations and priorities for the next five years. The realisation of these aspirations will be strongly influenced by the availability of resources. Each year, we will review our progress against the action plan and draw from the aspirations to inform future action plans.
Priorities for 2011 Priorities for the next 5 years (2011 – 15) • Improve access for all users of the line • Progress with path along the River Yeo to improve safety • Improve user code of conduct signs and safety signs • Consider options for removing grass cuttings and • Seek to reduce dog fouling and litter along the line investigate feasibility of composting on site • Establish an ongoing programme of verge cutting to • Continue to maintain and enhance the condition of the maintain its botanical interest and wildlife value SSSI section • Establish and Implement a programme of path • Monitor and manage the Congresbury reedbed surfacing and hard infrastructure maintenance with • Create new ponds and/or reinstate former ponds ad hoc management as and when required • Carry out species surveys for updating records and • Implement a reporting system for effective co- monitoring purposes ordination and management • Address issues of vandalism and destruction of natural • Implement tree risk management policy habitat along the line 40 The Strawberry Line Draft Management Plan March 2011
• Install markers along the line so that users can • Resolve issues of misuse and trespassing identify their location • Improve the provision of seating along the line • Maintain vegetation boundaries so there is minimal • Build on and improve the marketing and promotion of the encroachment on footpaths or important habitats, Strawberry line to increase awareness and user numbers while maintaining areas that are important for and promote local businesses. biodiversity Aspirations: • Investigate the Introduction of concessions along the • Progress with identifying funds and planning application Line for Congresbury bridge at the River Yeo • Support partner groups/volunteers with their • Investigate Increasing links with the Strawberry Line in activities along the line and in the delivery of events North Somerset in order to improve connectivity for and continue to encourage community involvement wildlife and people • Address encroachment issues • Investigate extension of the line, within North Somerset and eventually across Local Authority boundaries • Investigate safe route under Drove Way bridge at Nye Road utilising the route of the old railway to link the remainder of the Strawberry Line • Investigate resources for a dedicated post
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5.4 5 year action plan
Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
A Welcoming Place • To ensure that the Strawberry Line is welcoming and accessible to all possible users. A1.1) Maintain Interpretation A1.1.1) Monitor and repair Ongoing Officer Time/ Volunteers panels and artwork as necessary A1.2) Improve provision of seating A1.2.1) Investigate possible Seating is Implement when Management Committee/ along the line, with a focus on the locations/numbers/ designs installed funding Donations/ Congresbury and Sandford area and install available Seek Funding A1.3) Introduce bike rails to A1.3.1) Investigate possible Bike rails are Implement when Management encourage people to explore off locations/numbers and installed funding Committee/Seek funding - the line, thus benefiting local install available community groups can businesses. apply for up to 4 free cycle racks through Take a Stand. www.lifecycle.org.uk for application form A1.4) Maintain width of path and A1.4.1) Maintain width of Vegetation does July and Revenue keep vegetation from encroaching path by verge cutting (see not obstruct October cut on path to facilitate multi use A5.1 and A5.4) access along the path A1.4.2) Carry out hedge Volunteers pruning where required (also see A5.2)
A1.4.3) Cut back vegetation Revenue on path by toucan crossing at Congresbury bridge A1.5) Improve access for all users A1.5.2) Implement Changes are 2010/11 £8,000 capital allocated of the line to ensure a consistent improvements made to access from 2010/11 JLTP
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue) approach where possible recommended in access controls where report where appropriate necessary
A1.5.3) Consider signage to Implement when Management Committee increase awareness of the funding different users of the line available
A1.5.4) Continue ranger Ongoing NSC Ranger Service/ resource on the line to Sustrans volunteer provide information and to rangers act as a point of contact for any issues that may arise.
A1.5.5) Investigate 2011/12 Management Committee increasing the length of the line where bridleway use can be integrated with other users.
A1.5.6) Investigate and Implement when Management Committee/ address issues with funding Seek JLTP funding disability access, for available example at Ilex Lane.
Healthy, Safe and Secure • To take all reasonable measures to ensure the safety of all staff and users of the line. A2.1) Improve safety for users of A2.1.1) Progress with path 2011/12 Est. £20,000-£25,000 the line along River Yeo JLTP
A2.1.2) Address the poor Implement when Management Committee/ visibility at the rear of the funding Seek funding from JLTP 43 The Strawberry Line Draft Management Plan March 2011
Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
Grove in Winscombe available
Aspirations: A2.1.3) Progress planning Implement when Resources to be identified application for the River funding (Potential JLTP project/ Yeo bridge at available Section 106) Congresbury
A2.1.4) Investigate safe route under Drove Way bridge at Nye Road A2.2) Seek to reduce the amount A2.2.1) Report incidents to Ongoing Management Committee/ of dog fouling on the line Streets and Open Spaces Yatton PACT/ Dog Warden A2.2.2) Identify areas that Ongoing Management Committee need attention in order to target resources
A2.2.3) Introduce new user Implement when Yatton PACT code of conduct signs with a funding contact number to report available miss-use
A2.2.4) Investigate 2011 Management feasibility of Introducing Committee/NSC officer more dog bins at main entrances to the line.
A2.2.5) Investigate holding 2011/12 Area officers/ specific events and Ranger service/ awareness campaigns Dog warden service
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
targeting dog walkers A2.3) Continue inspections of A2.3.1) Address Issues Next principal Most recent Structures Section Shute Shelve Tunnel and other raised inspection to be principal NSC structures along the line carried out in inspection was 2013 carried out in 2007 (general inspections are carried out every 2 years between principal inspections) A2.4) Keep risk of harm from trees A2.4.1) Implement risk Site Walk-over is 2011, 2015 then Tree Section to a minimum management process carried out every continuing every following NSC’s Tree Risk 4 years 4 years Management Policy
A2.5) Introduce markers along the A2.5.1) Investigate markers Implement when JLTP line so that locations can be that could be used e.g. funding identified in emergency (and Milestone posts which were available Management Committee other) situations historically part of the railway. A grid reference should be included on the marker (see appendix 7). A2.6) Improve Signage A2.6.1) Install signage as Signage installed Implement when JLTP part of access control funding improvements (see available Appendix 10)
A2.6.2) Introduce new user Implement when Seek funding/
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
code of conduct signs at funding Management Committee main entrance sites. available Content and size to be discussed and agreed on.
A2.6.3) Install signage to Implement when designate the start and funding finish points of the available Bridleway and reference new map orders on bridleways in the area. A2.7) Provide Health and Safety A2.7.1) Deliver training Ongoing Ranger service/ training for volunteers before any activities are Sustrans volunteer undertaken rangers Clean and Well Maintained • To maintain high standards of management, cleanliness, and site maintenance. A3.1) Seek to reduce litter, A3.1.1) Report incidents to Ongoing Officer Time/ vandalism and fly tipping (also see Streets and Open Spaces Ranger service/ A2.1) YACWAG/CVRWS/YOT A3.1.2) Incorporate text into Ongoing Officer Time any further signage produced to encourage appreciation and respect of the line. Include a contact number for reporting incidents.
A3.1.3) Investigate Implement when Management Introducing more litter bins funding Committee/Officer Time at main entrances to the available
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
line. Install if appropriate.
A3.1.5) Encourage litter Ongoing Volunteers picking by volunteers A3.2) Ensure infrastructure and A3.2.1) Implement an Between Officer Time/ path surfacing are safe and well annual surface inspection of January-March /Sustrans/YACWAG/ maintained path and hard infrastructure annually CVRWS/YOT Natural England £12,000 A3.2.1) Carry out Spring – as per year until 2014 for resurfacing/infrastructure required access repairs as necessary
A3.2.3) Implement ad-hoc As required checks when necessary e.g. after storms
Sustainability • To adopt environmental management principles to reduce the impact of management operations on the environment and to encourage use of sustainable transport options. A4.1) Investigate means of A4.1.1) Investigate 2011 Officer Time disposing of grass cuttings introducing grass sustainably composting on site – line needs to be assessed for suitable areas.
A4.1.2) If suitable, carry out grass composting on site for stretches that are designated as cut and remove. Issue of Dog
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
fouling needs to be addressed. A4.2) Use local and/or recycled A4.2.1) Investigate Ongoing Officer Time materials for structures along the opportunities on a case by line where appropriate case basis Conservation • Protect and enhance the biodiversity of the Strawberry Line LNR through appropriate management (some of these actions will also apply to the SSSI section). • Continue management to bring the SSSI into favourable condition (these actions just apply to the SSSI section of the line). A5.1) Implement verge cutting to A5.1.1) Flail verges ½ metre July, annually £12, 000 NE stewardship maintain and enhance species- either side of path edge rich grassland annually in July
A5.1.2) Identify areas that are botanically diverse so that arisings can be removed in these areas.
A5.1.3) Investigate areas for additional nettle cut and July, annually Volunteers rake off to create areas of younger growth to benefit butterflies
A5.1.4) Review cut-and- remove and nettle Annually Management Committee prescriptions to assess their effects. A5.2) Maintain the current length A5.2.1) Assess Management to YACWAG/YOT/Brandon and extent of hedges and allow to development of hedges and take place Trust/Sustrans rangers
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue) produce flowers and fruits. implement appropriate outside of the management e.g. trimming, bird nesting laying, coppicing or flailing. season (November- February), following best practice guidelines A5.3) Carryout native hedge and A5.3.1) Identify areas of Implement when Management tree planting to improve hedgerow or tree lines that funding Committee/Seek funding connectivity where appropriate need gapping up. available
A5.4) Manage scrub so there is A5.4.1) Develop a scrub Scrub along the Management to Management minimal encroachment on management programme - line varies in age take place Committee/Volunteers footpaths and important habitats. Identify areas of scrub that structure to outside of the Rangers/ Scrub management will aim to should be cut annually, provide maximum bird nesting benefit wildlife. areas that should be benefit to wildlife season removed completely, and areas that should be cut on Scrub does not See Halcrow a longer rotation to maintain encroach on report for a mixed age structure. footpaths recommendatio Consider which areas will ns (Appendix 9) be hand pruned and which Scrub does not areas will be cut as part of encroach on the October verge cut. important wildflower areas A5.4.2) Implement annual scrub management programme for biodiversity at Yatton end.
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
A5.5) Update species records to A5.5.1) Set up/Continue a Annually YACWAG/Volunteers inform subsequent management yearly monitoring programme to include herptiles, birds, insects and vegetation along the line, with a focus on the SSSI A5.6) Where possible leave wood A5.6.1) Create habitat piles Ongoing YACWAG/Volunteers/ on site from coppicing and other Officer Time scrub/tree/hedge maintenance
A5.6.2) Leave standing deadwood where possible A5.7) Control invasive and non A5.7.1) Consider removing Ongoing. Revenue/Volunteers native species where Holm Oak trees on the Implement when possible/appropriate embankments either end of funding Shute Shelve Tunnel. available
A5.8) Manage restored reedbed A5.8.1) Cut back section of Starting in Revenue for wildlife reed every 2 years to Winter 2012 maintain habitat for reed and sedge warblers as per recommendation in Halcrow report (Appendix 9)
A5.8.2) Monitor reedbed Starting in 2015 Volunteers/Officer Time condition every 5 years to maintain an area of open water (see Appendix 9)
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
A5.8.3) Plant wildflower April 2010 Officer Time seeds in areas of bare ground and monitor A5.9) Create new ponds and/or A5.9.1) Identify and assess 2011-2015 YACWAG/Volunteers/ reinstate former ponds ponds that require attention Officer Time
A5.9.2) Identify sites for Biodiversity Action Grant new ponds A5.10) Increase extent of wildlife A5.10.1) Advise or manage Subject to Management Committee/ corridors new path links to benefit funding Officer Time wildlife and increase biodiversity A5.11) Continue to maintain and A5.11.1) Continue regular Ongoing YACWAG enhance the rhynes within the management of the rhynes SSSI in line with Halcrow recommendations (see appendix 9) to maintain nature conservation interest. A5.12) Support partner groups in A5.12.1) Partner groups to Subject to YACWAG et al the further acquisition of adjoining purchase and manage any funding land new land Heritage • Maintain the strategic significance and historical integrity of the line – its historic features, views and vistas. A7.1) Ongoing review as A7.1.1) Monitor the integrity Management resources allow. of the line Committee/Sustrans rangers/Volunteers
A7.1.2) Investigate Implement when Possible JLTP project installation of milestone funding
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
posts which used to be in available existence when the railway was operational.
A7.1.3) Display historical Ongoing The Heritage Group artefacts at Sandford station A7.2) Promote the strategic A7.2.1) Ensure inclusion Ongoing importance of the line. within Local Development Framework (LDF), Local Transport Plan (LTP), Green Infrastructure Strategy, Rights of Way Improvement Plan and other documents.
A7.2.2) Support planning application for extension of the line into Wells. Community Involvement • To encourage community involvement in the line through consultation, events and activities. A8.1) Continue to support the A8.1.1) Partner groups to 2011 Management involvement of local groups on the be consulted on committee/All partner line management plan in order groups/Officer Time to contribute to plans and ideas
A8.1.2) Support Sidcot March 2011 Officer Time school in the creation of a Tree Section community orchard in Woodborough Green (See
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
appendix 4).
A8.1.3) Assist with the co- Ongoing Ranger Service ordination of local Officer Time groups/schools interested in the practical habitat management of the Strawberry Line. A8.2) Increase interest and A8.2.1) Support the delivery Ongoing Ranger Service involvement of the local of events e.g. promoting the Go For Life community summer cycle ride JLTP
A8.2.2) Provide wildlife Implement when YACWAG/ Volunteers walks and talks resources available Marketing • To actively promote the Strawberry Line to all potential users A9.1) Distribute new leaflet A9.1.1) Identify key people 2011 Officer Time/ Volunteers along the line who will hold a stock of further copies and re fill dispensers A9.2) Promote community events A9.2.1) Advertise events on Subject to Officer Time NSC website. funding
A9.2.2) Produce leaflets and posters. A9.3) Assist local businesses A9.3.1) Consider options for 2011 Officer Time/Management along the line in their marketing regularising advertising by committee local businesses A9.4) Investigate the Introduction A9.4.1) Investigate the Ongoing Officer Time/Cycle Forum
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue) of concessions along the Line opportunity for cycle hire and café etc A9.5) Build on and improve the A9.5.1) Develop the Ongoing Strawberry Line marketing and promotion of the Strawberry Line Association Association Strawberry line by developing a website for the promotion of website the trail
A9.5.2) Improve information Ongoing Officer Time available on NSC website and ensure a link to the Strawberry Line Association website and Sustrans website. Ensure NSC website is up-to-date. Management • To provide a responsive, flexible and high quality management service A10.1) Resolve Biddle Street A10.1.1) Consultation with Ongoing Officer Time access issues and other landowners, tenants and encroachment issues people who have acquired rights e.g. shooting and fishing to find out who has legal access
A10.1.2) Ensure farmers Officer Time can cross their land
A10.1.3) Establish a Management reporting system via the committee/Officer Time management committee A10.2) Address Issues of A10.2.1) Identify boundary Ongoing Officer Time
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue) encroachment of the Strawberry Line and rights of others
A10.2.2) Negotiate with any trespassers A10.3) Deal with reports of misuse A10.3.1) Report vandalism Ongoing Officer Time/ Management and abuse e.g. vandalism and to NSC for notification to the Committee antisocial behaviour Police
A10.3.2) Strengthen Links with PACT teams A10.4) Management committee to A10.4.1) Quarterly review Ongoing Management Committee take the management plan meetings to be held Officer time forward A10.5) Improve partnership with A10.5.1) Include IDB in 2011 Officer Time IDB consultation over the management plan A10.6) Investigate opportunities A10.6.1) Investigate Ongoing Management Committee for additional funding sources of future sustainable funding for the maintenance and development of the Strawberry Line Aspiration Implement when Officer Time A10.7) Increase staff resources A10.7.1) Investigate funding on the Strawberry Line. funding for a dedicated available post Development • Develop the Strawberry Line as a spine for extension into other areas e.g. Wells, Wrington and Clevedon.
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Objectives Actions Measure Timetable Resources (staff/capital/ revenue)
Aspiration A11.1) Increase Links with the A11.1.1) Investigate Implement when Potential JLTP project Strawberry Line in North additional cycle routes resources are Resources to be identified Somerset to increase e.g. link to Churchill available connectivity and encourage use community school and by commuters. adjoining PROW. Pick off key routes to enhance from the cycle network. Implement enhancements when funding becomes available. Trails Trust A11.1.2) Investigate further (multi-use) routes e.g. Congresbury to Blagdon. Aspiration A11.2) Pursue extension of the A11.2.1) Liaise Implement when Sustrans/Officer Time Strawberry line in North with/support Sedgemoor resources are Somerset and eventually across District Council, Mendip available Local Authority boundaries. District Council, Somerset County Council and Sustrans to pursue extension of the line e.g. Cheddar to Wells and Yatton to Clevedon.
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6.0 FINANCE
6.1 Existing expenditure
Annual expenditure amounts to around £14, 594, funded by a Natural England Grant for access and Parish Council income (£2750). Where additional work is needed, grants and other funding are sought on an ad hoc basis.
6.2 Aspirations
The following identifies additional resources that are required to deliver the aspirations within the management plan, and considers options for securing these resources.
Priority Resources required Potential source of funding Investigate the opportunity for the Installation of a bridge at the Staff time to apply for Section 106 River Yeo and progress with planning application for the bridge. planning permission JLTP
Improve Links with the Strawberry Line in North Somerset e.g. JLTP/Trails Trust Congresbury to Blagdon and routes from the cycle network Pursue extension of the line within North Somerset e.g. Yatton to JLTP/Trails Trust Clevedon Pursue extension of the line into other Local Authorities e.g. Cheddar to Wells Establish an alternative safe route to avoid Drove Way bridge at Nye Road Investigate resources for a dedicated post
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7.0 MONITORING AND REVIEW
The management plan sets out a clear and detailed 5 year action plan, and outlines a number of aspirations.
It is our intention that the action plan will form an integral part of the responsible officers overall annual work plan and targets, which will be reviewed on an ongoing basis through one to one meetings with managers and the more formal performance review process.
The action plan will also be reviewed by the management committee quarterly, and progress monitored. This will be used to inform the action plan for the following year, and if appropriate, make minor changes to the overall management plan.
The management plan will be subject to a major review every 5 years, when it will be re-drafted and subject to consultation to develop a plan for the following 5 years.
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APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Partnership Groups and their relationship to the Strawberry Line
Name of partner group Relationship with Strawberry Line Cheddar Valley Railway Walk Original group that promoted the purchase and development of the railway walk in conjunction Society (CVRWS) with Sustrans and progressed the planning application for the cycle path. Volunteers carry out regular vegetation clearance and maintenance tasks. Representatives of CVRWS form part of the management committee
Churchill Parish Council Council representatives sit on the management committee
Congresbury Parish Council Provide grant assistance and council representatives sit on the management committee
Internal Drainage Board (IDB) Manage rhynes outside the SSSI
Millennium Green Trust Own the Millennium Green at Woodborough, Winscombe and manage the open area of this section of land. NSC flails the margin along the disused line. A permissive cycle route is allowed through this section along the route of the former track bed
Natural England Advise on management of the Yatton to Congresbury (SSSI) section
Sidcot School Manage Woodborough green to develop it as a community orchard
St Monica’s Trust Care Village owners on the site of the former Sandford Station. Passed over ownership of route of Strawberry Line as part of planning conditions. Restored station buildings and agreed to lease to Sandford Station Railway Heritage Group as a visitor centre.
Strawberry Line Café Trust A not for profit organisation supporting people with learning difficulties. Established the Strawberry (CIC) Community Interest Line Café at Yatton Station and employ people with learning difficulties. Company Sustrans Are a charity which support sustainable travel. They promote The Strawberry Line which forms part of the National Cycle Network (route 26) and provide voluntary Rangers who carry out habitat management work.
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Thatcher’s Cider Co Ltd Landowners of Orchards and section of track bed in the Nye Road area of Sandford. Agreed to permissive route through the orchards on either side of Nye Road. Owners of Railway Inn
The Trails Trust Are a charity that create and promote multi-use access to the countryside
Winscombe and Sandford Provide grant assistance and council representatives sit on the management committee Parish Council Yatton & Congresbury Wildlife Co-ordinate the conservation management of the Yatton to Congresbury section of the line, in Action Group partnership with Natural England. They manage the rhynes in this section and have developed a (YACWAG) programme of maintenance to enhance biodiversity. They carry out surveys, appoint and manage contractors and involve the NSC Youth offending team in management and monitoring. Representatives form part of the management committee
Yatton Parish Council Provide grant assistance and council representatives sit on the management committee
Youth Offending Team (YOT) Carry out practical habitat management tasks
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Appendix 2: Map of verge cutting prescriptions
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Appendix 3: Map of NSC ownership and Permissive routes
The extent of NSC ownership along the Strawberry Line is highlighted red.
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Appendix 4: Area adopted by Sidcot School to develop as a community orchard
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Appendix 5: Location of Gang Wall
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Appendix 6: Interesting and important flora and fauna in the Winscombe area
This map provides an indication as to where species of interest are found; it is not extensive and does not illustrate their exact location
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Appendix 7: Historical Milepost markers. Taken from 1895 survey by Great Western Railway. Mile posts were spaced at quarter mile intervals and run from milepost 1 in Whitham in Somerset to milepost 31 ½ in Yatton. Milepost 25 is the first marker in North Somerset, just North of Shute Shelve tunnel.
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Appendix 8: CVRWS Byelaws
DISTRICT OF WOODSPRING
BYELAWS
WITH RESPECT TO THE CHEDDAR VALLEY RAILWAY WALK
1987 R H Moon Chief Executive and Clerk
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WOODSPRING DISTRICT COUNCIL
Byelaws made under Section 90 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 by the Council of the District of Woodspring with respect of the Cheddar Valley Railway Walk.
1. Throughout these byelaws the following expressions have the meanings respectively assigned to them, viz:- "the Council" means the Council of the District of Woodspring "the land" means the land forming part of the Yatton to Axbridge former railway branch line commencing at a point approximately 250 metres south of the Yatton Railway Station in the County of Avon and extending generally in a southerly direction to a point approximately 110 metres south west of Sandmead Rhyne in the Parish of Winscombe and commencing at a point approximately 290 metres north of the A368 road in the Parish of Winscombe and continuing in a generally southerly direction to a point adjoining the westerly side of the A38 road at Shute Shelve in the County of Somerset.
2. No person shall on the land without reasonable excuse
(i) climb any wall or fence on or enclosing the land, or any tree, or any barrier, railing, post or other erection, not being a stile or other similar barrier
(ii) remove or displace any wall or fence in or enclosing the land, any barrier, railing, post or seat, or any part of any erection or ornament, or any implement provided for use in the laying out or maintenance of the land
3. No person shall without lawful excuse or authority kill, molest or intentionally disturb any animal, bird, or fish or engage in hunting, fishing or shooting or the setting of traps or nets or the laying of snares.
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4. No person shall except in the exercise of any lawful right or privilege have in his possession while he is on the land any firearm unless it is so covered with a securely fastened gun cover that it cannot be fired.
ln this byelaw "firearm" means any lethal barrelled, weapon of any description from which any shot bullet or other missile can be discharged.
This byelaw shall apply to all parts of the land except any part thereof which is a public right of way.
5. No person shall affix or cause to be affixed any advertisement, bill, placard or notice upon any building, wall, fence, gate, door, pillar, post, tree, rock or stone on or enclosing the land.
6. No person shall to the danger or annoyance of any other person on the land throw or discharge any missile.
7. (a) No person shall light a fire on the land, or place or throw or let fall a lighted match or any other thing" so as to be likely to cause a fire
(b) This byelaw shall not prevent the lighting or use of a properly constructed camping stove or cooker in any area set aside for the purpose, in such a manner as not to cause danger of or damage by fire 8. i. No person shall, except in the exercise of any lawful right or privilege bring or cause to be brought onto the land any barrow, truck, machine or vehicle other than:-
(a) a wheeled bicycle, tricycle or other similar machine;
(b) a wheelchair or perambulator drawn or propelled by hand and used solely for the conveyance of a child or children or an invalid
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Provided that where the Council set apart a space on the land for the use of any class of vehicle, this byelaw shall not be deemed to prohibit the driving in or to that space-by a direct route from the entrance to the land of any vehicle of the class for which it is set apart.
ii. No person shall except in the exercise of any lawful right or privilege ride any bicycle, tricycle or other similar machine in any part of the land.
9. No person shall hold any public meeting or deliver any public speech on the land.
10. No person shall, except in the exercise of any lawful right or privilege or on a public bridleway or path indicated by notices erected by the Council to be available for use by horse riders, ride a horse or pony on the land.
11. Where the Council indicate by a notice conspicuously exhibited on or alongside any gate on the land that leaving that gate open is prohibited, no person having opened that gate or caused it to be opened shall leave it open."
12. No person shall without the consent of the Council erect a tent or use any vehicle, including a caravan, or any other structure for the purpose of camping on the land except on any area which may be set apart and indicated by notice as a place where camping is permitted.
13. (a) No person shall on the land release any power driven model aircraft for flight or control the flight of such an aircraft
(b) No person shall cause any power driven model aircraft to take off or land on the land
In this byelaw: "model aircraft" means an aircraft which either weighs not more than 5 kilogram’s without its fuel or is for the time being exempted
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(as a model aircraft) from the provisions of the Air Navigation Order; "power driven" means driven by the combination of petrol vapour or other combustible substances or by one or more electric motors or by compressed gas.
14. No person shall by operating or causing or suffering to be operated any wireless set, gramophone, amplifier, tape recorder or similar instrument or any musical instrument make, cause or suffer to be made any noise which is so loud or so continuous or repeated as to give reasonable cause for annoyance to other persons on the land.
15. No person shall distribute handbills, circulars or advertisements so as to obstruct or give reasonable cause for annoyance to any person on the land.
16. No person shall cause or suffer a dog belonging to him in his charge to enter or remain on the land unless such dog be and continue to be under proper control, and be effectually restrained from causing annoyance to any person, and from worrying or disturbing any animal.
17. No person shall, except in pursuance of a lawful agreement with the Council, turn out or permit any animal to graze on the land.
18. No person shall on the land intentionally obstruct, disturb, or annoy any other person in the proper use of the land or intentionally obstruct, or disturb any officer of the Council in the proper execution of his duty, or any person or servant of any person employed by the Council in the proper execution of any work in connection with the laying out or maintenance of the land.
19. An act necessary to the proper execution of his duty on the land by an officer of the Council, or by
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a person or servant of any person employed by the Council, shall not be deemed an offence against these byelaws,
20. Every person who shall offend any of these byelaws shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding one hundred pounds.
THE COMMON SEAL of
WOODSPRING DISTRICT COUNCIL was hereunto affixed on the twenty fifth of February 1987 in the presence of
Mrs M McEwen-Smith (Signed) Chairman of the Council
R H Moon (Signed) Chief Executive and Clerk
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The foregoing byelaw(s) are hereby confirmed by the Secretary of State and shall come into operation on the 24th day of June 1987..
Signed by authority of the Secretary of State
Q J THOMAS (Signed) An Assistant Under Secretary of State
11 June.1987 Home Office London SW1
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