Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve Management Plan

2008 - 2013

2008 – 2013

Contents

1 Introduction ...... 9 2 Background...... 9 3 Site Description and Importance...... 10 3.1 Topography, Geology and Water...... 12 4 Site History...... 12 5 Management Group Organisational Structure ...... 16 6 Contacts at the Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve ...... 18 7 Location and Directions ...... 20 7.1 Location...... 20 7.2 Directions ...... 23 7.3 Ownership ...... 24 8 Finances...... 24 8.1 Three Rivers District Council Funding and Grants...... 24 8.1.1 Countryside Stewardship Scheme...... 24 8.2 Licences within Chorleywood House Estate ...... 25 9 Byelaws...... 26 10 Surveys...... 26 10.1 Bat Surveys ...... 26 10.2 Moth Survey (2008) ...... 26 10.3 Wildflower Survey (2008) ...... 26 10.4 Lichens (2004)...... 27 10.5 Birds (2003 and 2010)...... 27 10.6 Veteran Trees (2002) ...... 27 10.7 Butterflies (2009 - 2011) ...... 27 10.8 Dragonflies and Damselflies (2010)...... 28 11 Healthy, Safe and Secure...... 28 11.1 Healthy Living and Physical Activity ...... 28 11.2 Perception of Safety...... 28 11.2.1 Crime Statistics...... 29 11.3 Staff Presence...... 29 11.4 Control of Dogs...... 30 11.5 Risk Assessments and Health and Safety ...... 31

2 11.6 Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)...... 32 11.7 Health and Safety – Reporting, Reviewing and Monitoring...... 34 12 Equipment, Building and Landscape...... 34 12.1 Grounds...... 34 12.1.1 Community Involvement and Maintenance...... 35 12.2 Buildings...... 35 12.2.1 Disability Discrimination Act...... 35 12.2.2 Building Policies – Maintenance and Refurbishment ...... 35 12.3 Equipment...... 37 12.3.1 Maintenance and Provision of Equipment and Safety Equipment...... 37 12.4 General ...... 38 12.4.1 Maintenance is of a high standard...... 38 12.4.2 Programmed Maintenance of Equipment...... 38 12.4.3 Inspection Regimes...... 38 13 Litter, Cleanliness, Vandalism, Waste and Recycling ...... 41 13.1 Policies and Methods for gathering evidence relating to dog mess, flytipping and vandalism...... 41 13.2 Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994...... 42 14 Environmental Management and Sustainability...... 42 14.1 Environmental Management Systems ...... 43 14.2 Pesticide Use...... 43 14.3 Peat Use ...... 45 14.4 Resource Conservation and Pollution Reduction...... 45 14.5 Energy Efficiency...... 46 14.5.1 Vehicles...... 46 14.6 Water Efficiency...... 46 14.7 Reduce, Reuse and Recycle...... 47 15 Conservation of Nature...... 47 15.1 Habitat Action Plan Background...... 47 15.2 Key to Habitat Action Plans ...... 48 15.3 Habitat Action Plan – Year One ...... 49 15.4 Habitat Action Plan – Year Two...... 50 15.5 Habitat Action Plan – Year Three ...... 51 15.6 Habitat Action Plan – Year Four...... 52 15.7 Habitat Action Plan – Year Five ...... 53 15.8 Grounds Maintenance Contract Actions for Chorleywood House Estate...... 54 15.9 Conservation of Heritage...... 54 15.10 Capital Works...... 54 15.10.1 2011/12...... 54

3 15.11 Habitat Action Plan Specifications ...... 55 15.11.1 Grassland Management...... 55 15.11.2 Grazing...... 55 15.11.3 Meadow Seeding...... 56 15.11.4 Woodland Management...... 56 15.11.5 Chestnut Avenue ...... 59 15.11.6 Japanese Knotweed and Ragwort Control...... 59 15.11.7 Replacement of Failed Transplants and Bramble Removal (‘Beating Up’)...... 59 15.11.8 Coppice...... 59 15.11.9 Deer Baskets ...... 59 15.11.10 Coralroot Bittercress...... 60 15.11.11 Bird and Bat Boxes...... 60 15.11.12 Orchard...... 60 15.11.13 Hedge Planting ...... 61 15.11.14 Footpaths...... 61 15.11.15 Protected Species...... 61 15.12 Proposed Chorleywood House Estate Habitat Action Plan Actions ...... 62 15.13 Equality Impact Assessment...... 65 15.14 Monitoring and Reviewing ...... 68 16 Community Involvement...... 68 16.1 Knowledge and Understanding of the User Community...... 68 16.2 On-site Questionnaire Results for 2008 - 2011...... 71 16.3 Consultation Methods and the Management Plan ...... 73 16.4 Leadership and Partners ...... 73 16.5 Community Led and Focussed Activities ...... 74 16.6 Volunteering Opportunities...... 76 16.6.1 Volunteer Time Sheet...... 77 16.7 Targets for Increasing Involvement...... 77 16.8 Skills and Resources required for Community Involvement ...... 78 16.9 Recreation Facilities and Opportunities...... 79 16.10 Disability Discrimination Act ...... 79 17 Marketing ...... 80 17.1 Reviews and Updates...... 81 17.2 Information Distribution ...... 81 17.3 Information Presentation...... 81 17.3.1 On-Site Signage ...... 82 17.3.2 Print...... 82 17.3.3 Website and other Social Media...... 82 17.3.4 Press Releases ...... 82 17.4 Attracting Non-Users, Infrequent Users, Under-represented and Hard to Reach Groups ...... 83 17.5 Encouraging Site Use ...... 83 17.5.1 Annual Activities ...... 83 17.5.2 Regular Activities for Children and Families ...... 84 17.5.3 Regular Activities for Adults...... 84 17.5.4 Annual and Charity Events...... 84 17.5.5 Press Releases ...... 84

4 17.5.6 Friends of Group ...... 84 18 Glossary ...... 84 19 Appendices...... 85 19.1 Appendix 1: Wider Context: Policies and Strategies which relate to the LNR 85 19.1.1 Strategic Plan 2010 – 2013...... 85 19.1.2 Community Strategy...... 86 19.1.3 Local Plan and the Emerging Local Development Framework ...... 87 19.1.4 County Biodiversity Action Plan (revised 2006)...... 89 19.1.5 Additional Three Rivers District Council Policies...... 89 19.2 Appendix 2: Building Maintenance Schedule...... 89 19.2.1 Drill Hall ...... 90 19.2.2 Toilet Block...... 91 19.2.3 Old Chapel ...... 91 19.2.4 Summer House ...... 91 19.2.5 Well House and Generator Room...... 92 19.2.6 Pump House...... 92 19.2.7 Lawn Tennis Club ...... 94 19.3 Appendix 3: Relevant extract from the TRDC Grounds Maintenance Contract in relation to litter, cleanliness and vandalism at the LNR ...... 95 19.4 Appendix 4: Location of bins, waste storage and recycling (including composting) within the Local Nature Reserve...... 99 19.5 Appendix 5: The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate Constitution and Meeting Minutes...... 100 19.5.1 22 January 2009...... 101 19.5.2 20 March 2009 ...... 103 19.5.3 14 May 2009...... 105 19.5.4 9 July 2009 ...... 106 19.5.5 22 September 2009 ...... 107 19.5.6 14 April 2010...... 108 19.5.7 30 June 2010...... 110 19.5.8 24 September 2010 ...... 111 19.5.9 11 November 2010 ...... 113 19.5.10 22 July 2011 ...... 115 19.5.11 27 January 2011...... 116 19.5.12 13 May 2011...... 117 19.5.13 23 September 2011 ...... 118 19.5.14 18 November 2011 ...... 119 19.5.15 3 February 2012...... 120 19.5.16 2011 AGM 3 February 2012...... 121 19.6 Appendix 6: Chorleywood Community Orchard Constitution and Meeting Minutes...... 123 19.6.1 18 November 2008 (inaugural Meeting)...... 125 19.6.2 2 February 2009...... 127 19.6.3 30 April 2009...... 129 19.6.4 14 September 2009 ...... 130 19.6.5 25 February 2010...... 131 19.6.6 7 June 2010...... 133 19.6.7 30 November 2010 ...... 135 19.6.8 13 September 2010 ...... 137 19.6.9 January 17 th 2011 ...... 139 19.6.10 10 March 2011 ...... 140 19.6.11 14 April 2011...... 142 19.6.12 17 May 2011 (AGM)...... 143 19.7 Appendix 7: Byelaws for the Local Nature Reserve...... 146

5 19.8 Additional Appendices ...... 152 19.8.1 Grounds Maintenance Contract ...... 152 19.8.2 Risk Assessments...... 152 19.8.3 Selection of press coverage/publicity relating to the Local Nature Reserve...... 152 19.8.4 Chorleywood House Estate Tree Survey 2011/12...... 152

6 Amendment Sheet

AMEND OFFI MENT SECTION UPDATED DETAILS CER DATE

22/01/09 8.2 Leases New lease details confirmed KF

05/08/09 8.2 Leases Updated lease information KF

Updated section to reflect the fact the 13 Equipment, Building 05/08/09 Grounds Maintenance Contract has KF and Landscape been taken in-house. 1-4 Introduction, 05/08/09 Background, History, Sections reviewed and re-organised. KF Description

27/8/09 9 Wider Context New section on the Local Plan added. KF

13 Equipment, Building 27/8/09 Detail clarified and revised. KF and Landscape Minutes of Friends Group and 17 Community Chorleywood Community Orchard 27/8/09 KF Involvement added. More detail of groups activities added.

28/8/09 8. Finance Section updated and revised. KF

17.4 Community Led 15/10/09 and Focussed Updated list of community activities KF Activities 16 Conservation of 17/2/10 Section updated with completed actions. KF Nature 12.2 Perception of 13/01/10 Crime statistics for 2009 added KF Safety

03/02/10 11. Surveys Butterfly survey information added. KF

11. Surveys 29/06/10 Updated information KF 17.6 Vol. Info 17.2 On-site Updated with questionnaire results for 5/10/10 KF Questionnaire Results 2010 16 Conservation of 12/1/11 Update Action Plan Maps KF Nature

15/2/11 8.2 Leases Licence details added amended KF

17.2 On-site Updated with questionnaire results for 4/10/11 KF Questionnaire Results 2011

12/12/11 12.2.1 Crime Statistics Updated crime statistics KF

7 16.9 Conservation of 13/12/11 New section added KF Heritage 15.1 Environmental 19/12/11 Section amended KF Management Systems 13.2.3 Buildings Section revised and updated to reflect 19/12/11 KF Maintenance Schedule the current situation Section updated with new Strategic Plan 19/12/11 9.1 Strategic Plan KF information 9.2 Community Section updated to reflect the fact that 19/12/11 KF Strategy the strategy has been refreshed Updates section with 2011 butterfly 26/01/12 11 Surveys KF survey results 17.6.3 Selection of Minutes from the Updated with minutes of AGM and 6/02/12 Friends of KF Committee Meeting Chorleywood House Estate Revised Management Plan so that Whole Management important, but not directly relevant, 8/02/12 KF Plan information is now contained within the appendices.

8 1 Introduction

The Management Plan for Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve (LNR) sets out the management, maintenance and development framework of the Local Nature Reserve over five years. The plan not only follows guidance from Natural England and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) but also organisations such as The Hertfordshire Biological Records Centre, The Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust and the Hertfordshire Bat Group.

The Management Plan is regularly reviewed, but at least annually, so that any outstanding tasks can be rescheduled, as necessary. The Management Plan is also frequently reviewed in conjunction with the Friends of group, the Countryside Management Service and any other relevant bodies.

The aim of the Management Plan is to establish the sustainable management, enhancement and development of a key open space for the benefit of wildlife and the community.

The primary purpose of the Local Nature Reserve is to provide a valuable, well- maintained, asset for the community whilst managing and enhancing the site for wildlife in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way.

2 Background

There are six Local Nature Reserves which are owned and managed by Three Rivers District Council (TRDC). Local Nature Reserves are for wildlife and people. They are special places for wildlife, geological features, education, scientific research and/or enjoyment by local communities.

Chorleywood House Estate is in the freehold ownership of Three Rivers District Council. Chorleywood House Estate was designated, after consultation with Natural England, as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR) in 2007. Local Nature Reserve is a statutory designation declared by the Local Authority. The Local Nature Reserve was designated by the Council under powers given by Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. In declaring the site as a Local Nature Reserve the Council accepted the responsibility to ensure that the special interest of the site is maintained.

In order for a site to be declared as a Local Nature Reserve it must meet at least one of the following criteria, as set out by Natural England:

a. Conserve or enhance habitats or species. b. Encourage public enjoyment. c. Promote educational usage. d. Provide for interpretation and scientific research. e. Conserve or enhance geological features.

In this case the Local Nature Reserve meets more than one of the above criteria; in particular a) and b) but also c) and d).

9 3 Site Description and Importance

With a population of around 11 500, the Parish of Chorleywood covers 3.48 square miles in the south west corner of Hertfordshire alongside the Buckinghamshire border. On its south side is the Metropolitan railway line from Rickmansworth and London's Baker Street (a line also shared by British Rail trains from Marylebone) with, beyond Chorleywood Station, the shopping centre and residential thoroughfares reaching away to the suburb known as The Swillett, once a natural 'swill' from which several fresh water streams arose. On the north side, Chorleywood Common is flanked by the main A404 road along which is Chorleywood House Estate.

The Local Nature Reserve is located within the Chiltern Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and offers several contrasting walks set within the estate grounds. The site is approximately 64.6 hectares (160 acres) and combines formal parkland, open meadows and mature woodland leading down to the banks of the River Chess. Parts of Chorleywood House Estate form a County Wildlife Site (see Figure 1) which supports important grassland and woodland areas. The woodland network includes ancient and secondary woodland. There are protected species on this special site. For example, there are numerous colonies of Coralroot Bittercress, in fact Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve is the main area in Hertfordshire in which this rare plant can be found. The ground flora supports ancient woodland indicators. The are several areas where wild daffodils can be found. The grassland areas are composed of semi-improved neutral to acid grassland with chalk grassland in Chorleywood Dell which is recognised as a key neutral grassland site in the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) for Hertfordshire. For more information about the Biodiversity Action Plan for Hertfordshire, including more details about neutral grassland, go to: www.hef.org.uk/nature/biodiversity_vision/index.htm

Figure 1: Location Plan of the Chorleywood House Estate Wildlife Site.

10 Chorleywood House Estate Grounds include many interesting buildings that reflect the history of Chorleywood and with fine examples of timber construction that have recently been renovated. The Summer House situated close to the main house was formerly a nursery and is now used by the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate. There is a Well House, Old Chapel and Drill Hall that are important buildings worthy of conservation and are, in general, in good order. The activities generated through the occupancy of these and other buildings on the estate allow such diverse uses as a Montessori school, model railway club, scouts, football and tennis clubs to flourish.

The Local Nature Reserve is a significant, well used and valued, green space in Chorleywood. As well as being important for wildlife and biodiversity the Local Nature Reserve is an important recreational green space providing sports pitches, public (free) and private tennis courts and a range of opportunities for informal recreation. Chorleywood House Estate is also an important venue for events ranging from orienteering sessions and dog shows to charity walks.

The 2008 survey reveals that the site is used by a variety of groups, the majority being dog walkers (70%). Many people also use the Local Nature Reserve for walking (50%), getting fresh air (33%), to relax (28%), or to keep fit (25%). Other popular activities include simply enjoying the peace and quiet of Chorleywood House Estate (20%), enjoying the beauty of the surroundings (18%) and observing the birds and animals of the site (13%).

Reasons for Visiting the LNR

80 70 60 50 40 30 20 Percentage (%) Percentage 10 0

The Local Nature Reserve is fortunate to have support from the local community and user groups. The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate organise regular volunteer days on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Tasks range from footpath work and vegetation clearance to ragwort pulling and building maintenance. The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate also have a significant input in to the site Management Plan. The Friends group has been greatly involved in the Local Nature Reserve since its formation, over a decade ago. The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate have their own webpage, which can be viewed at: http://chorleywoodhouse.org.uk

Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve is open all year. There are no entrance fees and free car parking is available.

3.1 Topography, Geology and Water

The area is described in Hertfordshire’s County Council’s (HCC) Landscape Strategy as forming part of the Chilterns dip slope and a mixture of river valley and plateau. The Management Plan for the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, produced by the Chilterns Conservation Board, identifies the landscape character of the area as “River Valley Landscapes (The Chess Valley)”.

The overall landscape character, as described in the Hertfordshire Strategy, is part of:

“A gently undulating and sinuous plateau, locally divided by narrow chalk valleys. A small to medium-scale landscape, relatively wooded and treed, which helps to create a visually contained and coherent appearance. The area has a planned feel with a number of traditional farm buildings, parklands and more recent developments…. The area is of local importance for nature conservation and recreation.”

The underlying geology of the area is a combination of plateau and river terrace drift forming part of the clay-with-flints area. The soils are characterised by a mix of well drained fine loamy over clayey soils and coarse and fine loamy over clayey soils with slowly permeable subsoils and localised slight seasonal water-logging.

The local hydrology consists of ponding associated with the parkland setting of the Estate and a flint-lined man-made drainage channel across part of the Estate known as the Leat. This channel was redefined in 2002 as part of the restoration of a former inert waste tip at Dell Wood by Groundwork Hertfordshire on the Estate.

The River Chess lies on the north-eastern boundary of the site. According to the County Council’s Landscape Assessment, the River Chess is often referred to as “the cleanest and best chalk streams that flow off the Chilterns, with ‘excellent’ or ‘good’ biological quality results from Environment Agency tests. On the valley floor the river meanders vigorously. There are a number of chases, secondary channels and quiet cut-off ponds. Some of the frequent spring sources were modified in the 19 th century to form the now derelict watercress beds. These add character to the area and highlight the way that the watercourse has been utilised by man.”

4 Site History

Chorleywood House Estate was originally under the ownership of the Earl of Bedford, as was much of the area in the 16 th century. The Estate eventually passed to Lady Ela Russell who bought the original Georgian house in 1892. By 1898 Lady Ela Russell had converted the house into the Victorian mansion we see today. It was during Lady Ela Russell’s ownership that the grounds were laid out in extensive formal gardens with lawns, flower beds and many fine specimen trees. In 1939, after her death, the house and grounds were purchased by Chorleywood Urban District Council as their council offices. The property devolved to Three Rivers District Council in 1974 until the Council transferred to new premises. Chorleywood House has now been converted into flats but the grounds remain in the ownership of the District Council.

12 Picture One: The Original Georgian Chorleywood House

Picture Two: Chorleywood House, as it looked in the 1930s

13 Picture Three: Household Staff in 1934

14 Picture Four: Garden Cottage (within the grounds of the Lawn Tennis Club today)

Picture Five: Cottages adjacent to the current Dell Nature Reserve

15 Picture Six: Chorleywood House Estate in 1867

5 Management Group Organisational Structure

All decisions relating to the Local Nature Reserve are made in partnership. The principal groups involved are Three Rivers District Council, the Countryside Management Service (CMS) and the Friends of group (which represents various communities who have an interest in the site). The group meets every six weeks. The current set-up for the Local Nature Reserve management group is set out overleaf.

16 CHORLEYWOOD HOUSE ESTATE MANAGEMENT GROUP

ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

THREE RIVERS DISTRICT COUNCIL (TRDC)

COUNTRYSIDE MANAGEMENT SERVICE (CMS)

FRIENDS OF CHORLEYWOOD HOUSE ESTATE (FCWHE)

CHORLEYWOOD CHORLEYWOOD RESIDENTS COMMON PARISH COUNCIL VOLUNTEERS ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL CLUB (CWPC)

DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES COUNCILLORS FROM THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

Three Rivers District Council or the Countryside Management Service attend each of the six-weekly meetings in order to provide an update report on the LNR and take on- board comments from the group. The meetings are used to discuss all matters relating to the Local Nature Reserve and its management. Furthermore, when the LNR Management Plan is under review, these regular meetings are used to consult upon the draft as well as permitting new projects and ideas to be added, prior to the finalisation of the plan.

The range of users and stakeholders represented in the group is wide and, consequently, facilitates the different users and stakeholders of the LNR to interact as well as having an input in to the formulation of the Management Plan itself. This interaction is continued through the volunteer tasks which are held twice a month. In the main the volunteers devise their own programme of tasks which are then agreed and signed off by Three Rivers District Council. As such the group works together to formulate its own priorities for the Local Nature Reserve. Volunteers range from members of the local community and residents association to representatives of the football club who use the site.

17 6 Contacts at the Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve

Kay FitzGerald, Biodiversity Projects Officer, Three Rivers District Council 01923 776611 www.threerivers.gov.uk [email protected]

Julie Hughes, Principal Landscape Officer, Three Rivers District Council 01923 776611 www.threerivers.gov.uk [email protected]

Countryside Management Service 01462 459395 [email protected] http://www.hertslink.org/cms/

Friends of Chorleywood House Estate 01923 284320 [email protected] http://chorleywoodhouse.org.uk

Chorleywood Common Youth Football Club 01923 775497 http://www.ccyfc.net/ [email protected]

Residents Association 01923 449295 [email protected] http://www.chorleywoodresidents.co.uk/

Rickmansworth and Chorleywood District Scouts 0845 643 6954 http://www.hertfordshirescouts.org.uk/ [email protected]

Chorleywood Lawn Tennis Club 01923 284199 http://www.chorleywoodtennis.co.uk/

Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust 01727 858901 http://www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/herts/ [email protected]

Yvonne Merritt, Parish Clerk, Chorleywood Parish Council 01923 285594 http://www.chorleywood-pc.gov.uk [email protected]

Hertfordshire Police 0845 3300 222

18 http://www.herts.police.uk

Local Police and Police Community Support Officers Chorleywood, Croxley Green and Sarratt 01707 354192 http://snt.herts.police.uk/aCMS/team.php?nptID=31&dID=8

19 7 Location and Directions

7.1 Location

Figure 2: Location Plan of Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve.

20 Figure 3: Site Plan of Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve

Figure 4: Aerial photograph of the Local Nature Reserve

Figure 5: Watercolour Map of the Local Nature Reserve, including walks

7.2 Directions

Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve is located on Rickmansworth Road, Chorleywood.

Access by car is via the A404, approximately ½ mile west from J18 of the M25.

Public transport: Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve is around a one mile walk (across Chorleywood Common) from Chorleywood Tube station. There are frequent bus services from Watford, Rickmansworth, Chesham and Amersham. Call Traveline on 0871 200 2233 for further information.

The nearest postcode is WD3 5SL.

The Ordnance Survey Grid Reference for the site is TQ 036 971.

7.3 Ownership

Chorleywood House Estate is in the freehold ownership of Three Rivers District Council.

8 Finances

8.1 Three Rivers District Council Funding and Grants

The day-to-day site management of the Local Nature Reserve is carried out by the in-house team, as set out in the Grounds Maintenance Contract (see appendices). Any specific projects that require expert knowledge are undertaken by specialist, approved, contractors.

Finances for the Local Nature Reserve are approved on a three-year rolling programme. Currently the following funds are available:

2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 TRDC Funds £12,000 £12,000 £4,000 £4,000 £4000 (Landscape) TRDC Funds (Grounds £7,800 £9,200 £17,200 £17,200 £17,200 Maintenance Contract) £72,000 TRDC Funds (carried £72,000 (Buildings) over into 2010/11) Grant Funding (Countryside £,5625 £5,867 £4,367 £4,625 £4269 Stewardship Scheme)

8.1.1 Countryside Stewardship Scheme

The Countryside Stewardship Scheme is administered by Natural England to assist land owners enhance and conserve the landscape. The scheme aims to improve the natural beauty and diversity of the countryside, enhance, restore and re-create targeted landscapes, their wildlife habitats and historical features and to improve opportunities for public access.

In the case of Chorleywood House Estate funds have been provided to help plant and restore hedges, establish the new Community Orchard, carry out the cut and lift operation of the meadow areas, provide sheep fencing as well as field gates and kissing gates.

The Countryside Stewardship Scheme has now been superseded by the Environmental Stewardship Scheme which will, hopefully, replace the existing Countryside Stewardship Scheme in place at Chorleywood House Estate when it comes to an end in 2012/13.

24 8.2 Licences within Chorleywood House Estate

LEASE RENT PREMISES TENANT USE START TERM P.A. DATE £3500 (rent Montessori Field Studies Chorleywood Youth Club subsidy School and 06/09/04 6 Centre Management Committee reduces Youth Club amount to £1500.00 Workshop Drill Hall Right Maintenance Limited and £2500.00 01/07/09 5 Storage £125.00 (2008 - Amersham and Model 2012) Old Chapel Chorleywood Model Railway 25/02/08 10 Railway Society Club £150.00 (2013 - 2018) Meeting Friends of Chorleywood Annual Summer House Room and £1.00 01/12/05 House Estate agreement Storage Pavilion and Chorleywood Common Football £2300.00 25/03/02 20 Football Pitches Youth Football Club Club £50.00 The Hut and Rickmansworth and Scout (reviewed Surrounding Chorleywood District 19/01/09 25 Camp after 5 woodland Scouts years) Chorleywood Lawn Tennis Tennis Lawn Tennis Club £1100.00 24/09/07 35 Club Club Annual agreement - Terminate Dell Nature Hertfordshire and Nature £1.00 24/02/77 d March Reserve Middlesex Wildlife Trust Reserve 2010 – TRDC now manage Phone Telephone Mast Mercury £3465.00 24/02/93 25 Mast Private Residence – D. Private Entrance Lodge £10.00 25/03/02 99 Briant Residence Private Residence – Mr Private North Lodge £10.00 25/03/85 125 Harvey Residence South Lodge Parish Council Office £1.00 13/01/11 7 Land adjacent to Mr Stables Grazing £850.00 27/07/09 3 Dell Farm Cottage Dell Farm Cottage Annual Mead Spring Mrs D. Barlow Grazing £250.00 9/02/11 agreement

9 Byelaws

Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve is covered by a set of byelaws specific to several of the parks and open spaces under the ownership of Three Rivers District Council. The byelaws were made by the Council under section 164 of the Public Health Act 1875 and Sections 12 and 15 of the Open Spaces Act 1906 and Section 17 Green Belt (London and Home Counties) Act 1938.

The full set of byelaws can be found in the appendices.

10 Surveys

The Hertfordshire Biological Records Centre, which is part of Hertfordshire County Council, holds centrally all of the survey information relating to the Local Nature Reserve. This information can be accessed at any time and has been utilised to inform the current Management Plan. The surveys cover all aspects of the flora and fauna on site. Below is a summary of the more relevant and recent surveys.

10.1 Bat Surveys

Chorleywood House Estate is a significant site for bat roots. A bat survey of the Estate identified the species which utilise the site, the location of any bat roosts, feeding sites, flight routes and possible woodland management for bats.

The survey found that bats were using the Local Nature Reserve for both roosting and feeding.

A bat survey from 1991, found that Chorleywood House itself contained 21 brown long-eared bats in the loft space. However, a survey from 2002 only noted one bat emerging from the House and a small amount of bat droppings indicating that this space is no longer used as a traditional nursery roosting site. Nevertheless, several species of bats have been observed in different parts of the Estate.

Further areas which are important for bats are the River Chess, the Dell Nature Reserve and an historic ice house within the grounds of the Local Nature Reserve.

10.2 Moth Survey (2008)

The most recent moth survey was carried out in 2008 and identified the following species:

Barred Sallow Brindled Green Snout

Cinnabar moths are also present within the grounds.

10.3 Wildflower Survey (2008)

26 A wildflower survey in 2008 found the Local Nature Reserve to be of good quality and species rich, with the extent of bird’s-foot-trefoil being especially noticeable. Sweet vernal grass, field woodrush, black knapweed, agrimony and meadow buttercup are also frequent components of the grasslands.

More than 40 species of higher plant were recorded in the meadow adjacent to the football pitches.

The grassland areas of the Local Nature Reserve are characterised by Yorkshire fog, red fescue and meadow grasses and bird’s-foot trefoil, ribwort plantain, creeping buttercup and germander speedwell, although variation in management will have affected the specific composition of each area.

10.4 Lichens (2004)

A lichen survey from 2004 recorded 37 different species of lichen on bark, wood, timber and man made substrates around Chorleywood House Estate.

10.5 Birds (2003 and 2010)

45 bird species were noted around the Local Nature Reserve during a survey in 2003. Species include coal tit, tree creeper and green/greater spotted/lesser spotted woodpecker as well as kingfisher, pheasant and partridge. Birds of prey include sparrowhawk, kestrel, buzzard and red kite.

Summer visitors include blackcap, chiffchaff, willow warbler, swallow, house martin and swift. Winter visitors include fieldfare and redwing.

Skylarks have been recorded around the Local Nature Reserve in the past.

A short survey in 2010 recorded similar species to that of the 2003 survey. Notable species included a red kites, black caps, whitethroats and song thrush.

10.6 Veteran Trees (2002)

The Fiends of Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve undertook a survey of veteran trees in 2002, as part of the Hertfordshire Veteran Tree Survey which was co-ordinated by the Hertfordshire Biological Records Centre. Species recorded include cedar, oak, sweet chestnut, beech and walnut and a total of 26 veteran trees were noted.

10.7 Butterflies (2009 - 2011)

A butterfly survey was carried out in the summer of 2009. Species recorded include orange tip, large and small white, brimstone, speckled wood, hedge and meadow brown, small skipper, common and holly blue, small copper, comma, painted lady, red admiral, peacock, small tortoiseshell and ringlet.

It was also noted that during the summer marbled white and clouded yellow butterflies were seen but not a single burnett moth was observed.

A short butterfly survey carried out at the end of June 2010 noted several species of butterfly. Marbled white, meadow brown and ringlet butterflies were the most abundant with smaller numbers of brimstone, common blue, large skipper and small skipper being recorded.

A butterfly survey carried out during the summer of 2011 noted 17 species. Although, in general, it was a bad year for butterflies, those species recorded included comma, ringlet, common blue, holly blue, small skipper, marbled white, small skipper, brimstone, meadow brown, hedge brown, peacock and orange tip.

10.8 Dragonflies and Damselflies (2010)

Both banded demoiselles and emperor dragonflies have been recorded within the grounds of the Local Nature Reserve.

11 Healthy, Safe and Secure

11.1 Healthy Living and Physical Activity

There is a varied selection of activities available at the Local Nature Reserve. Many of the events and activities on offer promote healthy living through physical activity and healthy lifestyles. For example the following activities are on offer at the Local Nature Reserve:

Nordic Walking (exercise classes using walking poles) Health Walks (health walks led by a trained volunteer) Guided Walks (led by CMS and/or TRDC Officer) Charity Walks (organised by local groups) Volunteer Days (Green Gym) Orienteering events Tennis Courts – free courts are available, as well as a private club Chorleywood Common Youth Football Club

The Local Nature Reserve also offers and promotes a variety of opportunities for informal exercise such as walking, bird watching and running.

11.2 Perception of Safety

Work has taken place at the Local Nature Reserve to improve visibility and the sense of security. Trees and vegetation have been worked upon to open up footpaths and increase the amount of light reaching the footpaths.

There is a speed limit on site which keeps vehicular movement to a sensible speed within the Local Nature Reserve.

Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) also visit the Local Nature Reserve on a regular basis as part of their patrol routes. Additionally, since 2009, Hertfordshire Police and Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Army Cadet Force have run an outreach programme which aims to steer 12 to 15 year olds away from crime, improve their confidence and help them make a positive contribution to society. Overall 75% of

28 attendees have benefitted from an improved outcome, with 45% showing a significant improvement. Hertfordshire Police also runs an innovative Volunteer Cadet Scheme. The programme aims to provide young adults with a sense of what it is like to be a police officer by involving cadets in a range of police related activities such as crime prevention projects. Cadets are encouraged to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and most Cadet Schemes involve a strong element of outdoor experience such as rock climbing and canoeing.

The Parish Council offices are located within the grounds of Chorleywood House Estate which enables the public to make contact, if necessary.

The main TRDC contact number, and the TRDC website address, is given on the site interpretation boards so that members of the public can contact the Council, as required. Furthermore, outside of normal office hours the main Council phone number is diverted to an out-of-hours contact. This adds to the sense of security as the public know that they can contact the Council should they need to.

11.2.1 Crime Statistics

Between 2006 and 2011 there were a total of 16 reported crimes within the Local Nature Reserve. The table below gives a summary of the types of crimes and the frequency over the six years.

All of thefts took place from vehicles and all of the damage incidences also related to vehicles. The drug offenses related to the possession of a class C drug.

NUMBER OF INCIDENCES PER YEAR OFFENCE TYPE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Theft 10 1 0 0 0 0 Damage 2 0 0 0 0 0 Alcohol/Drugs 1 2 2 0 0 0 Assault 0 0 0 0 0 0 Dog related 0 0 0 0 0 0 Public Order 0 0 0 0 0 0 Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 13 1 2 0 0 0

The 2008 survey of users revealed that 97% of visitors to Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve felt safe during their daylight visits. Furthermore, 46% of users felt very safe or fairly safe after dark and 15% felt neither safe or unsafe. However, 33% of users stated that they felt very unsafe within the Local Nature Reserve after dark. The only reason given for feeling unsafe was that there were too many dogs within the Local Nature Reserve which were not under sufficient control.

11.3 Staff Presence

The Grounds Maintenance team who operate at the Local Nature Reserve remains the same from year to year which helps engender a sense of ownership and pride.

The Three Rivers District Council Tree Surgeon has also been working at the Local Nature Reserve for the last 25 years.

The Parish Council offices are based just inside the entrance of Chorleywood House Estate LNR. Three Rivers District Council has a very good relationship with the Parish Council and they are able to pass on requests from the public as well as providing leaflets that the public may pick up.

11.4 Control of Dogs

There are byelaws in place at the Local Nature Reserve which state that:

A person shall not cause or suffer any dog belonging to him or in his charge to enter or remain in the ground unless such a dog be and continue to be under proper control and be effectively restrained: (i) from causing annoyance to any persons; (ii) from worrying or disturbing any animal or wildfowl; (iii) from entering any lake, pond or stream, or any paddling, swimming or boating pool or other water or any sandpit or enclosure set apart for the exclusive use of persons under the age of 14 and persons having care and control of such persons.

Since 2004 Three Rivers District Council has had a fixed penalty scheme for dog fouling. The Council introduced the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 to control dog fouling throughout the District, which makes it an offense to fail to immediately clear up any mess deposited anywhere in the District. As such, any person caught not clearing up after their dog will be issued with a ticket giving them the option of paying a £50 fine within 14 days or face legal action (with a maximum penalty of £1000).

Three Rivers District Council also employs a dedicated Animal Control Enforcement Officer who is responsible for animal control and makes regular visits to the Local Nature Reserve.

Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) also visit the Local Nature Reserve on a regular basis as part of their patrol routes.

The Parish Council, who are in the building the entrance to the Estate, give out free dog bags as does the local library and pet shop. The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate have also started a poster campaign within the grounds to highlight the problems of dog waste and the responsibilities of dog owners.

TRDC has been working with Parish Council and the local police to investigate the feasibility of implementing a Dog Control Order for Chorleywood House Estate. Dog Control Orders can be made to control: • Dog fouling • Restriction of dogs from certain land • Areas where dogs have to be kept on leads • Areas where dogs have to be kept on lead when instructed • Restrictions on multiple dog walking

Dog Control Orders, which are part of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005, can be made by the Local Authority at a local level. Any breach of the order could be enforced with a maximum fine of level 3 on the standard scale or the opportunity to pay a fixed penalty may be offered. Of course such an Order would have cost and resource implications which are currently being investigated.

11.5 Risk Assessments and Health and Safety

There are many risk assessments which relate to the Local Nature Reserve. A sample is below and more examples can be found in the appendices. The risk assessments cover topics from the use of chainsaws and tractor operation to leptospirosis and mowing steep banks.

Some of the principal health and safety issues at Chorleywood House Estate include: • working/being outdoors in general, • working/being on steep banks/uneven ground and adjacent to footpaths and access roads, • vehicles on wet/damp ground, • working with specific equipment such as chainsaws, hedge strimmers, chippers and hand mowers and • coming in to contact with litter and dog waste.

All of the risk assessments consider whether the risk affects employees, the general public, young people, visitors or contractors. The risk assessment also states the appropriate action necessary to mitigate/reduce any risks.

A sample risk assessment is below. Further risk assessments can be found in the appendices.

RISK ASSESSMENT

03/03/2008 Site Location: District Date of last assessment: Date of issue: 03/03/2009 Assessment review date:

Steve Devine Activity/Situation : Assessment carried out by:

Hand mowing steep banks Signed:

PERSON CURRENT FURTHER ACTION Ref.: HAZARD RISK(S) EXPOSED CURRENT CONTROLS RISK REQUIRED No TO RISK H M L Yes No 1 Steep banks making mowing Falling. slipping, losing E/Con/Pub Operatives are advised that allPPE must be worn at all / ///

difficult Control of mower, coming times ( as PPE is supplied by TRGM), also to ensure that

Into contact with blades boots have Good grip, and to ensure they do not use

mowers on banks over 35° as per manufacturers

instructions.

E = Employee Persons Pub = Public Exposed YP = Young Person to Vis = Visitor risk Con = Contractor

Risk assessments are also carried out prior to any volunteer task or event at the Local Nature Reserve. Again these risk assessments take in to account the risk(s), who is potentially affected and what measures are taken to reduce the identified risk(s). An example is below and additional examples can be found in the appendices.

31 RISK ASSESSMENT

Site Location: Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve, Chorleywood Date of last assessment: N/A

Assessment review date: March 2008

Date of assessment: 25/03/08 Assessment carried out by: Kay FitzGerald

Activity/Situation/Substance: Bug Hunting Signed:

PERSON CURRENT FURTHER ACTION Ref.: HAZARD RISK(S) EXPOSED CURRENT CONTROLS RISK REQUIRED No TO RISK H M L Yes No 1 Vehicle Access Vehicle collision and injury All Conduct activity away from main access road. 444 444

Use hazard warning signs and high visibility jackets as

necessary.

2 Tetanus, Leptospirosis Severe illness, even death All Make participants aware of risks at start of activity. 444 444

(Weils Disease) Advise to seek medical help if any symptoms arise (the

doctor should be informed of recent activity).

Wash hands before eating, drinking or smoking.

Cover any broken skin before starting activity.

Promptly wash and cover any cuts.

Advise participants to have tetanus inoculation.

3 Inclement Weather – hot, Hypothermia, All Wear suitable clothing that protects from sunlight, 444 444

cold, wet, dry, etc hyperthermia, sunburn, including hats.

dehydration Apply sunblock to any areas of exposed skin.

Drink water as necessary.

Stop activity if people are obviously unprepared for the

4 Litter Minor cuts, potential All Remove litter before activity commences. 444 444

infections Avoid contact with bare hands – use gloves and/or litter

pickers.

5 Ground conditions – uneven Trips and falls All Wear suitable footwear. 444 444

paths, steep banks etc. Keep equipment and area tidy.

Inspect site and clear/mark inherent trip hazards.

Use safe access points to the water, avoiding steep

banks.

6 Equipment (nets) Facial injury All To make sure everyone knows how to handle the nets 444 444

safely and correctly and that this is checked throughout

the activity.

7 Bees, Wasps, Hornets, Bites and stings All Avoid such creatures where possible.

Mosquitoes, etc Be aware if any individuals present suffer from major

allergic reactions and the potential for anaphylactic

shock.

8 Dog mess Disease All To complete an extensive site check prior to the activity 444 444

commencing and if need be clear up any dog mess. Must

use appropriate equipment including gloves, spade and

bag and place mess into a dog mess bin.

9 Children Loss of child/injury to child Children To make sure the correct ratio of adults to children is 444 444

evident (1 adult to 8 children). Children are shown the

correct way to use equipment and carry out the activity.

All children are checked and counted on a regular basis

throughout the activity. Children will be escorted by

parent/guardian at all times.

10 Injury from all of the above Cuts, strains and other All First aid trained individual on site at all times as well as 444 444

injuries a first aid kit.

11.6 Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)

The Grounds Maintenance contract states that the Contractor has to nominate a person to be responsible for health and safety matters (Section D19.3). Whilst on premises owned or occupied by the Authority, the Contractor shall ensure that its

32 employees comply with the Authority’s general statement of safety policy and with the lawful requirements of the Authority’s Safety Officer.

Section D19.3 of the Grounds Maintenance contract also states that the Contractor shall provide its general statement of safety policy (having regard to the Authority’s general statement of safety policy) which shall be supplied to the Authorised Officer within seven days of the Commencement Date.

The Contract goes on to state that the Contractor shall provide adequate first-aid provision in accordance with the statutory requirements and shall ensure that adequate and suitable fire extinguishers are provided and that sufficient staff is trained in first-aid and safe utilisation of the fire fighting equipment.

Furthermore, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and associated Regulations require the Council to provide, as far as is practicable, a safe and healthy workplace. The Act also requires the Council, as an employer of more than five people, to provide a written Health and Safety Policy to inform employees of the arrangements that have been made to ensure their health, safety and welfare whilst at work. The Health and Safety Executive is the enforcing authority for health and safety in local authorities. As such they will monitor the Council's arrangements for health and safety.

Three Rivers District Council takes a very proactive approach to health and safety. To this end, not only are all relevant posters and the like displayed clearly, all staff receive an updated copy of the Health and Safety Policy and an updated copy of all the relevant risk assessments, every year at the time of their annual appraisal. These documents have to be signed for twice, once when they receive them and a second time approximately two months later to say they have read and understood them.

TRDC runs an ongoing training programme that includes refresher training on all aspects of their role. TRDC has a specific Manual Handling Assessment Checklist (http://intranet.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/InductionEqualitiesDocuments ) which ensures all pertinent topics are covered. In addition to this all staff members have to complete a Health and Safety checklist during their first week of employment (http://intranet.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/InductionEqualitiesDocuments ).

All pesticides are used according to their specific requirements and in line with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH 1998) and the Control of Pesticides Regulations (1986) Acts. Non-residual pesticides are always preferred.

When pesticides are not in use they must be kept in a secure and identified purpose- built container. Part 3, paragraph 12 of the Code of Practice for Suppliers of Pesticides (February 1990) which states "Pesticides should not be kept in a vehicle for any period longer than 24 hours (except in the case of long distance haulage) unless the vehicle meets the basic criteria set out in Part 2, paragraph 6 of the Code, i.e. BASIS store requirement" must be complied with at all times.

Furthermore, Three Rivers District Council holds all COSHH data cards and ensures that all staff is aware of the dangers and all of the procedures that have to be followed. This helps ensure employees and anyone else who might be affected by hazardous substances is protected. All of the necessary assessments are carried out by an officer with sufficient technical knowledge and utilising the health and safety information from the manufacturer/supplier. Having assessed the risks, measures are then put in place to prevent and/or control the risk.

TRDC also has relevant forms and information regarding reportable accidents, risk assessments, first aiders, stress and corporate manslaughter. All of the above, including the full Health and Safety policy for the Council can be found at: http://intranet.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/HealthandSafety

11.7 Health and Safety – Reporting, Reviewing and Monitoring

Three Rivers District Council has an ongoing in-house Health and Safety audit system in place. This involves regular audits taking place on site and discussions with staff at the time of the audit to ensure that all safety procedures, as laid out within the risk assessment, are relevant and robust.

It is essential that all employees correctly report all accidents or major incidents which occur and management ensure that accident or incident report forms are completed quickly and accurately and forwarded to the Health and Safety Adviser. As such there is an Accident and Incident Reporting system in place. The reasons for this are:

(i) To enable Three Rivers District Council to comply with the statutory requirements. (ii) To enable staff to receive any industrial injury benefits or work bonus they may be entitled to. (iii) To enable an investigation of the accident/incident to be made which may prevent a recurrence of the problem and highlight potential risk areas or situations that have not been addressed by a risk assessment.

TRDC also has members on the panel of Three Rivers District Council’s own Health and Safety Policy panel. This helps to ensure that staff keeps health and safety at the top of its agenda and up-to-date.

12 Equipment, Building and Landscape

12.1 Grounds

Maintenance of the LNR grounds, including structures such as the ornamental pond, but excluding the buildings (which fall under the remit of the Sustainability department of Three Rivers District Council) is the responsibility of the Environmental Protection Team of Three Rivers District Council. As of July 2009 Three Rivers District Council became responsible for the running of the Grounds Maintenance Contract when it won the tender and it came in-house. The objective of the Grounds Maintenance contract is to:

• Deliver services to a specified, high, standard . • Identify appropriate management and technical solutions for the improvement of standards of the Services in accordance with the Council’s Specification. • Provide the necessary finances to undertake the improvements required. • Carry out improvements in accordance with an agreed methodology and timetable to meet the standards set out in the Specification.

34 The Contract is a performance based specification to ensure that the defined standards are maintained at all times. The standards set down in the Environmental Protection Act 1990 Code of Practice on Litter and Refuse has been adopted at the Contractor is required to comply with these.

12.1.1 Community Involvement and Maintenance

The community is invited to be involved in the maintenance of the Local Nature Reserve through the Friends groups, which is overseen and supported by the Leisure Department of Three Rivers District Council as well as the Countryside Management Service. The Friends group not only carry out tasks on site such as redesigning and replanting the Sunken Garden but also have the opportunity to have a direct input in to the site’s Management Plan and the projects that are detailed within.

All of the relevant tools, training, risk assessments, guidance and supervision are provided by Three Rivers District Council and the Countryside Management Service.

12.2 Buildings

12.2.1 Disability Discrimination Act

There are no buildings at Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve which are open to the general public.

12.2.2 Building Policies – Maintenance and Refurbishment

Tenants of the buildings within the grounds of the LNR are responsible for the internal condition of their buildings as they have internal repairing leases. Leasesees within the Compound (the fenced area which houses the majority of the buildings, and sits behind the football pitches) are also responsible for maintaining the vegetation which surrounds their buildings. The external condition of all of the buildings and the remaining vegetation within the Compound is the responsibility of TRDC’s Sustainability Department.

Chorleywood House Estate Grounds include many interesting buildings that reflect the history of Chorleywood and with fine examples of timber construction that have been renovated. The Summer House situated close to the main house was formerly a nursery and is now used by the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate. There is a Well House, Old Chapel and Drill Hall that are important buildings worthy of conservation and are, in general, in good order. The activities generated through the occupancy of these and other buildings on the Estate allow such diverse uses as a Montessori school, model railway club, scouts, football and tennis clubs to flourish.

Asset management and its planning forms an integral part of the Council’s business management and is crucial to the delivery of the efficient and effective services.

TRDC’s Asset Management Plan sets out the medium/long term land, property and accommodation strategies that have been drawn up in support of the Council’s existing Strategic Plan and the key objectives of the service plan.

35 The Council’s Constitution identifies the Asset Management Plan as one of the documents comprising its Policy Framework. The plan provides detailed information about the Council’s existing asset base and a range of performance measures and indicators that are intended to inform future decisions about the suitability, sufficiency, and sustainability of the Council’s land and property resources.

Stakeholders’ views inform the asset management process. The objective of consultation and feedback from stakeholders is to influence the continuous improvement of property and its management. A Capital Strategy and Asset Management Team, made up of senior TRDC managers, and chaired by the Asset Manager, is responsible for regularly reviewing and updating the Capital Strategy and Asset Management Plan and ensuring a corporate approach.

The Council’s planned maintenance programme results from regular inspections which consider the current suitability and life of equipment, and includes the prevention of legionella, statutory service testing, and asbestos identification.

Planned and re-active maintenance contracts are specified and tendered for between 3 and 5 year terms. Capital works are identified and carried out through a pre-agreed schedule system. Larger individual items of work identified from these initial inspections are considered for funding through the normal Council bidding process. Service planning particularly focuses on this element of pre-programming.

The section, of the Council’s Draft Asset Management Plan for 2009 - 2014, relating to the buildings within the grounds of Chorleywood House Estate is shown below.

TRAFFIC LIGHT SURVEY Fit for Overall On-going Reprovision Alternative Current Address Purpose score Utilisation Accessibility liabilities cost use value status

Summerhouse Bldg Chwd Hse RED 14 RED AMBER AMBER RED GREEN RED Field Study Centre Chwd Hse GREEN 33 GREEN GREEN GREEN GREEN GREEN GREEN Tennis club Chwd Hse GREEN 31 GREEN GREEN GREEN GREEN AMBER GREEN South Lodge Chwd Hse GREEN 33 GREEN GREEN GREEN GREEN AMBER GREEN The Chapel Chwd Hse GREEN 27 GREEN GREEN RED GREEN GREEN GREEN Well House Chwd Hse RED 13 RED AMBER RED RED GREEN RED Drill Hall Chwd Hse RED 27 GREEN GREEN RED GREEN GREEN GREEN

Status Below acceptable level RED 8% . reasonable standard AMBER 17% Good standard GREEN 75% Where a score of 12 or lower is achieved a full appraisal of the asset will be carried out. A report will be made regarding a decision for future use.

Over the past five years an extensive improvement programme has been carried out to several of the buildings within the grounds of Chorleywood House Estate. The Summer House, the Drill Hall, the Chapel and the Generator House have all been enhanced through works which have included re-wiring, painting, glass replacement, door replacement, gutter repairs, woodwork restoration and tile and cladding replacement.

36 During 2009 an interim report was produced as part of the on-going process to create maintenance and repair schedules for the Estate buildings, the details of which can be read in the appendices.

12.3 Equipment

12.3.1 Maintenance and Provision of Equipment and Safety Equipment

It is the responsibility of the Environmental Protection Team and the Tree and Landscape Unit to ensure that all equipment, used by Council staff, is maintained to the correct standard. As such all of the equipment used by the team of Tree Surgeons has to meet Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) standards and is independently inspected every six months. LOLER is aimed at ensuring all lifting operations are properly planned, lifting equipment is used in a safe manner and lifting equipment is thoroughly examined at suitable intervals by a competent person.

LOLER also has links to other health and safety legislation such as:

• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – requires a risk assessment to be completed. • Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 – requires suitable work equipment to be selected. Regulation 6 deals with the inspection of work equipment. Regulation 9 provides guidance for driver training (of self-propelled vehicles) and for those who use chainsaws on or in trees. Regulations 25 to 30 deal with aspects of mobile work equipment.

The arborists are also trained to carry out a daily pre-use check of their equipment and written weekly records of inspections are kept, where necessary.

LOLER covers numerous topics ranging from risk assessments and personal protective equipment to safe use of all-terrain vehicles and operator seat restraints for mobile work equipment.

Any member of staff who is required to use a chainsaw has successfully completed a four day training and assessment course. This training course is repeated every five years to ensure all staff are up-to-date with changing practices. Similarly staff also attends training courses on the use of hedge trimmers and strimmers.

Further additional training that is undertaken by staff includes Certificate of Competence in Tractor Driving and Related Operations, Level 2 (pre-use safety; tractor operation; hitch a trailer and three-point linkage implement to a tractor).

A proportion of staff is first aid trained and is able to administer first aid on-site, as necessary.

All training is refreshed and updated at regular intervals.

All staff are equipped with the appropriate tools and clothing for each task. Safety equipment may range from safety boots, dust masks and high visibility jackets to ear defenders, first aid kits and chainsaw trousers.

37 12.4 General

12.4.1 Maintenance is of a high standard

The Grounds Maintenance Contract, which is the responsibility of the Environmental Protection Team of Three Rivers District Council, sets out a very high standard of maintenance for the Local Nature Reserve. Any new contractors employed to work on site are vetted and references are taken up as necessary. The majority of the contractors employed at the Local Nature Reserve have been used by the Council for a number of years. This ensures that all projects are completed to a high standard.

12.4.2 Programmed Maintenance of Equipment

The Environmental Protection Team at Three Rivers District Council instructs the servicing of small equipment during the winter period. Service records are maintained for all of the equipment. Any detected faults are recorded in the default book and signed off once repaired. Vans and tractors are serviced in accordance with the manufactures requirements. As with small equipment, all faults found with the vans and tractors are detailed in the default book and signed off, once repaired.

12.4.3 Inspection Regimes

The Environmental Protection Team regularly inspects, and records any defects, within the Local Nature Reserve. These inspections are carried out on a weekly basis, or more frequently if required. Every inspection is formally recorded so that any necessary works can be actioned. A sample Grounds Inspection Sheet is shown overleaf and covers areas from play equipment to cleanliness and litter.

The Environmental Inspector carries out an additional inspection on a monthly basis, or more regularly if necessary. Records are kept highlighting any works not reaching the standards required within the contract documents. This work is then passed to the Environmental Protection Team to action. The inspector also monitors the progress of the management plan relating to Grounds Maintenance and is recorded. Sample inspection sheets are shown overleaf highlighting any works required.

In addition, reports from user groups, the Friends group and members of the public are also noted.

38 Environmental Grounds Inspection Protection Sheet

Site: Chorleywood House Estate Time: 13:00 Date: 29/12/2008 Location: Chorleywood Inspector: Andrew Blake Mowing/gangs/Triple: N/A Cleanliness and Litter: Inspected Lawn Area: N/A Litter bins: Inspected Strimming: N/A Dog Waste bins: Inspected Grass Edges: N/A Play Areas Cylider N/A litter: N/A Shrub/Rose beds: N/A Equipment: N/A Bedding areas Hedges: N/A Multi Play: N/A Cut back N/A Skate Board Park: Weed Control: N/A Cemeteries Pond Clearance: N/A waiting room: N/A Coppice: N/A Toilets: N/A Spinney: N/A Grave Maintenance: N/A Pavilion cleaning: N/A Gates: N/A Sports Markings: N/A Date of Cleaning Memorial: Football: N/A Car Parks: N/A Hockey: N/A Road Area: N/A Cricket Table: N/A Footpath: N/A Cricket N/A Supply & Spread rock salt: N/A Bowling Green: N/A Rides: N/A Tennis Courts: N/A Vandalism: Comments: Graffiti: N/A Pro Active No: Skate board park Berry Lake Water Level:

Fences: N/A Furniture: N/A Play equipment: N/A Paths and Roads: N/A Pavilion: N/A Comments TRDC: Notes:

Signed ...... Inspector

In addition to this the TRDC Tree Officer carries out inspections of the trees within the LNR using a system called Confirm Arboriculture which is a map-enabled management system for the inspection, maintenance and monitoring of trees using a hand held tablet PC. The system prompts the user to collect varied information concerning each tree ranging from a dead wood risk assessment, fungal pathogens and likelihood of failure to life expectancy, bat roost potential and root condition. A sample of two of the survey screens is shown below.

13 Litter, Cleanliness, Vandalism, Waste and Recycling

The Grounds Maintenance contract for Three Rivers District Council has policies which cover issues such as litter, cleanliness and vandalism. The policies relate to all areas of Chorleywood House Estate, with the exception of the buildings, which fall under the responsibility of the Sustainability department of Three Rivers District Council and the licensees who rent buildings from the Council. The most relevant policies and procedures from the Grounds Maintenance contract are detailed in the appendices.

Details of the location of bins, waste storage and recycling within the Local Nature Reserve can also be found in the appendices.

13.1 Policies and Methods for gathering evidence relating to dog mess, flytipping and vandalism

Three Rivers District Council has powers to deal with flytipping under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005. Under the Act, flytipping is an arrestable offence, and residents caught dumping waste could face a £50,000 fine or five years in prison. Vehicles used for flytipping can also be seized and destroyed. Fixed Penalty Notices may be issued under the Act for offences such as littering.

The Council has invested £20,000 on camera equipment to detect people flytipping and dumping rubbish. Council staff has been working with monitoring equipment which captures footage and which can be used as court evidence when bringing a prosecution.

Once a report of littering, fly tipping or vandalism has been received from a member of the public or a Grounds Maintenance Officer an Environmental Protection Inspector will inspect the location. After inspection and gathering of evidence the inspector will arrange with the contractor the safe removal of the waste or make safe any damaged equipment.

Three Rivers District Council Environmental Protection Department will inspect flytipping and littering within 24 hours of a report. The Environmental Protection Inspectors are authorised to carry out enforcement under Sections 87/88 and 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. The inspection of the controlled waste would include accessing size, location and type of waste (required for the DEFRA flycapture database). Any evidence is photographed and removed for further investigation. The investigation is then carried out in compliance with PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984).

The removal of the controlled waste is carried out by the Grounds Maintenance Contractor under the Three Rivers District Council waste carriers Licence (Waste Collection Authority) or their own waste carriers Licence and disposed of at the Hertfordshire County Council transfer station (Waste disposal Authority).

Any vandalism is inspected as soon as possible after the report and normally within 24 hours. The damaged item(s) would be made safe and photographed. The damage is also reported to the appropriate council department for repair. Additionally, the vandalism is reported to the Community Safety Coordinator for contact with the Police.

Three Rivers District Council works with the Hertfordshire Constabulary to catch graffiti offenders. This work has included taking photographs of ‘tags’ to help identify offenders. The Council has a commitment to remove graffiti within 48 hours of a report and remove racist graffiti within three hours of a report.

The Three Rivers Community Partnership has also introduced cameras in the District to catch offenders carrying out graffiti and other anti-social behavior.

The Council also has procedures in place for the consideration and making of an application for an Anti Social Behaviour Order (ASBO). This can be read at: http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=Anti- Social%20Behaviour%20Orders%20-%20Protocol.doc

Three Rivers District Council employs a dedicated Animal Warden who is responsible for animal control and makes regular visits to the Local Nature Reserve.

13.2 Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994

The Grounds Maintenance Contract and the Management Plan fully recognise the responsibilities of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994.

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 aims to prevent pollution from emissions to air, land or water from scheduled processes. The Act also places a duty of care on those involved in the management of waste.

The Regulations set out in the Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994 underpin the waste management licensing system and provide details on the key concepts outlined under Environmental Protection Act (EPA) 1990 Part 2. It is the Council’s responsibility under this Act to comply with the regulations.

All of the locations covered by the Grounds Maintenance Contract (except children’s play areas) have been classified as Zone 2 in accordance with Environmental Protection Act 1990 Code of Practice on Litter and Refuse. All children’s play areas have been classified as Zone 1 in accordance with Environmental Protection Act 1990 Code of Practice in Litter and Refuse.

14 Environmental Management and Sustainability

TRDC has a strong commitment to the environment and environmental sustainability and recognises the impacts its operations have on the environment. TRDC’s dedication to protect the environment is reflected in Council policies, strategies, commitments and partnerships.

TRDC, for example, has signed the Nottingham Declaration on Climate Change. This partnership is a unique collaboration of all of the key bodies that support local authority action on climate change. By signing the Declaration the Council has pledged to systematically address the causes of climate change and to prepare the community for its impacts. Although TRDC is already doing many things to tackle climate change, signing is a public commitment to take action and a catalyst for a more systematic response.

14.1 Environmental Management Systems

Tree surveys are carried out in all TRDC parks and open spaces as part of a formalised programme. All dead wood, including standing dead wood, is left in situ where safe to do so. Trees which have to be reduced or removed for safety reasons are stacked in habitat piles or chipped into areas where the work has been carried out. If practicable the resulting wood from tree surgery may be utilised to make rustic benches. See appendices for the 2011/12 tree survey.

TRDC also has an extensive Woodland Management Plan in place. The overall aim of the plan is to manage the 240 hectares of woodland it owns, including areas within the Local Nature Reserve, in a way which promotes wildlife, public access and recreation. The complete Woodland Management Plan for TRDC can be read at: http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/WoodlandsManagementPlan

No grass cuttings are removed from site, apart from when cut and lift operations are in place. The arisings of the latter are sold and used for animal feed, where practicable.

Within the Grounds Maintenance contract it states that the contractor will be expected at all times to show consideration to one of the Council’s key objectives which is ‘to maintain a high quality local environment and reduce the eco- footprint of the District’ (Section F7.1).

14.2 Pesticide Use

Three Rivers District Council has a Pesticide Strategy in place. The Council is committed to safeguarding the natural environment through reducing damaging activities and achieving certification of its woodlands under the UK Woodland Assurance Standard. The TRDC Pesticide Strategy sets out how it will reduce the unnecessary use of harmful chemicals.

The full Pesticide Strategy can be read viewed on-line at: http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=TRDC%20Pesticide%20Strate gy.doc

Historically TRDC has used a limited amount of pesticide to control weed growth in public places and for the establishment of young trees. Furthermore, where land has been designated as being of special importance for biodiversity such as Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or where a Habitat Action Plan (HAP) or Species Action Plan (SAP) exists or where a site is adjacent to land where conversion to

43 organic status is taking place, there will be a presumption against the use of pesticides in favour of organic and/or physical methods of weed control.

In particular, at the Aquadrome, the Grounds Maintenance team have not used pesticides over the last few years as gas burners are utilised as and when weed control is required.

TRDC has secured accreditation under the UK Woodland Assurance Standard. In terms of pesticide use the Standard states that the owner/manager shall plan to minimise the use of pesticides, biological control agents and fertilisers and endeavour to avoid their use. The Standard goes on to state that:

• The owner/manager shall prepare and implement an effective strategy for the minimisation of pesticides and biological control agents. • The strategy shall include a description of all known use over the previous five years – or the duration of the current woodland ownership if that is less than five years. • The strategy shall specify aims for the minimisation or elimination of usage, taking into account considerations of cost (economic, social and environmental), and the cyclical nature of forest operations. • The strategy shall be appropriate to the scale of the woodland and the intensity of management. • The owner/manager shall keep records of pesticide usage and biological control agents in line with current legislation.

The TRDC Woodland Management Plan can be read at: http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/WoodlandsManagementPlan

Glyphosate is only used to control weeds where manual weeding is impractical. Pesticides are used sparingly and only on completion of a site specific site inspection and with the agreement of a Supervisor. Early applications are applied in order to reduce the need for repeat applications. Where possible, mulch is used to reduce the volume of weeds and thus the requirement for pesticides. Only staff with the relevant qualifications implements such regimes. As a consequence chemicals are not used near watercourses or where drift may be problematic.

The Grounds Maintenance contract states that the Council will only use pesticides within its open spaces where this will bring tangible benefits, where it will not cause irreversible environmental damage and only where there is no viable, less harmful alternative (section F6.6 of the Specification).

The contract goes on to state:

F6.7 The Council will seek to reduce the number of pesticide applications and where possible eliminate the use of pesticides and to introduce the use of environmentally friendly alternatives such as, for example, organic mulch mats around young trees.

F6.8 The Council will maintain a list of Endorsed Chemicals for use on TRDC land in an attempt to reduce the number of harmful chemicals and increase the use of environmental alternatives and lower impact pesticides.

44 F6.9 Where it is considered necessary to use chemicals for the maintenance of any site, a Chemical Use Form shall be completed setting out the justification for the use of chemicals in this instance.

F6.10 The Council will retain these forms and will monitor their use. The Council aim to make a reduction in the use of chemicals for the maintenance of its grounds year on year.

Four (out of ten) of the Grounds Maintenance team are qualified to apply glyphosate and all of the Inspectors/Monitoring Officers (five staff) are qualified to do so.

14.3 Peat Use

TRDC has a presumption against peat use and the Council is committed to eliminating the use of peat within all of its operations, including where plants are purchased from outside organisations. The Grounds Maintenance Contract, states:

F6.3 Manures, mulches, top dressings, composts and all other organic matter required in undertaking any of the works included in the specification shall be free of peat. This shall include the composts used for spring and summer bedding plant material. Peat substitutes such as coir or pulverised bark will be acceptable.

23.3 Plants must be obtained from a source approved by the Authorised Officer. They must not have been grown under soil and climatic conditions substantially different from that of the District. The nursery supplying all plant material shall have a strict policy of not using peat in any of its growing mediums. Approval may be withheld if the Authorised Officer considers the source too far away from the District.

23.10 All bedding plants supplied by Contractor will be: (viii) Free from any growing medium containing peat

23.11 All trees and shrubs supplied by the Contractor will be: (x) Free from any growing medium containing peat

14.4 Resource Conservation and Pollution Reduction

Three Rivers District Council is committed to safeguarding the natural environment through reducing damaging activities. TRDC will reduce the unnecessary use of harmful chemicals. For example, no products which contain Chloro-Flourocarbons (CFC’s) may be used. As wooden street furniture comes to the end of its natural life

45 it is replaced with furniture that has been produced from sustainable resources. In fact only timber obtained from sustainably managed woodlands is utilised throughout the District. TRDC does not use wood preservatives or wood treated with preservatives containing pentachlorophenol, lindane or tributyltin oxide.

An additional example of how TRDC is dedicated to preserving the environment is through its fertiliser use. All fertilisers have to be as environmentally sustainable as possible.

It is the Council’s policy and intention to recycle that largest proportion of natural materials as possible and a compositing site has been identified within the grounds of the Local Nature Reserve.

Three Rivers District Council takes all reasonable precautions to prevent the pollution of the atmosphere, waterways, rivers, seas and the countryside or urban areas by the discharge of liquids, solids or gases and will be held responsible for any damage caused by such discharge or deposit.

All cleaning materials (detergents, polishes and disinfectants) are phosphate free. The company who manufactures them (Cleenol Group) is committed to the highest levels of environmental care. They recognise that the products are eventually released into the environment in one form or another and they take every necessary step to ensure that any negative effects are eliminated or minimised.

14.5 Energy Efficiency

TRDC sources its electricity from Scottish and Southern. All of electricity supplied by Scottish Power is derived from a hydro electric source. All of the electricity meters are read on a monthly basis to monitor usage and the carbon footprint.

14.5.1 Vehicles

All vehicles operated within the District do so with the minimum of noise and emission of dust and fumes. All vehicles are also regularly serviced and maintained in accordance with the requirements of the Transport and Road Traffic Acts and any other relevant legislation.

All machinery used in the grounds maintenance operations, from chainsaws to the mowing machines, run on lead free petrol or petrol/oil mix. Machines running on diesel use Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel.

In 2009 Three Rivers District Council purchased an electric vehicle to aid the implementation of the Grounds Maintenance Contract.

14.6 Water Efficiency

Wood chips are used within the flower beds and borders to reduce their water requirement (and help reduce the volume of weeds). Watering is carried out on an ‘as necessary’ basis rather than as part of a regimented routine. This minimises the water used. In fact very little watering takes place at the Local Nature Reserve. Only when new plants are planted does initial watering take place. Outside of these times no watering occurs within the Local Nature Reserve.

Rainwater is collected from the main Council offices. This water is reused to water plants on site, as necessary. Four water meters are due to be installed in 2012 at key locations within the Aquadrome in order that usage can be monitored and increase early leak detection.

Water is supplied by Veolia Water who has a commitment to protecting the environment and using water in the most appropriate ways.

14.7 Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

The TRDC Grounds Maintenance Contract states:

F44.2 All arisings must be disposed of in accordance with F57, with plastic bottles, and cans being recycled separately where this is considered reasonable by the Authorised Officer.

F57.1 It is the Council’s policy and intention to recycle that largest proportion of natural materials as possible.

As litter picks take place around the Local Nature Reserve it is separated ready for recycling. Recycling bins have been installed at key locations within the Local Nature Reserve. This compliments the recycling of waste collected during litter picks and enables the general public to sort their waste as they dispose of it so that it can be recycled rather than sent to landfill.

No grass cuttings are removed from site, apart from when cut and lift operations are in place. The arisings of the latter are sold and used for animal feed, where practicable.

15 Conservation of Nature

A site specific five year Habitat Management Plan has been drawn up for the Local Nature Reserve which reflects the principal uses of the site as well as the fact that Chorleywood House Estate has been designated as a Local Nature Reserve. The habitat management plan has been written by the Countryside Management Service and Three Rivers District Council. The plan was drawn up in consultation with various bodies such as Natural England, DEFRA, the Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust and the Hertfordshire Biological Records Centre.

15.1 Habitat Action Plan Background

The aim of the habitat action plan is to continue the effective management of the natural habitat and landscape elements of Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve. The habitat action plan aims to undertake the best management of the site and place it on as near a sustainable footing as possible.

The plan addresses the management of two main habitat types: • Grassland - ongoing restoration to a level where the vast majority can be managed to a simple standard prescription, to benefit wildlife and visual amenity. • Woodland - initiate basic proactive management, over and above minimum safety requirements. Proposed works to be used as a demonstration of the principles of

47 woodland management, ensuring long-term management objectives are met and compliment the Three Rivers District Council Woodland Management Plan.

15.2 Key to Habitat Action Plans

Led by TRDC/CMS Officers via in-house staff or contractor.

Led by TRDC/CMS Officers via volunteer tasks.

48 15.3 Habitat Action Plan – Year One

15.4 Habitat Action Plan – Year Two

15.5 Habitat Action Plan – Year Three Annual Items Control J. knotweed/hemlock x Plan review x Year 3 Grassland management x WIGS/WGS annual works x Thin willow Site risk assessment x Tree safety survey # wands, if required 2010 x x Ride management x x Volunteer programme x x Footpath clearance x Key Species monitoring x x Remove graffitti x x N Monitor fencing, litter and parkland furniture x x Manage ragwort x x Maintain hedges x x Review leases/ agreements x 1:5000 Ongong actions in CSS x &V Phone mast Control bramble in x new planting Footpath # access on foot % vehicle access # # conservation cut grass # native woodland Remove non-native invasive spp. x x Retain core wood as habitat piles x x # plantation Remove central bramble hedge Remove boundary bramble back x path # Plant hedge car park around phone # &V # river mast x # built structure # # # sports facility

residential housing # # chestnut avenue # # grazing corral # # amenity grassland Control Laurel # Cut back footpaths to ornamental planting maintain access road # pond %# Scrub

River chess

This map is reproduced from Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of Install rustic benches the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown copyright as appropraite and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. Hertfordshire County Council, 100019606 ,2008 15.6 Habitat Action Plan – Year Four Annual Items Control J. knotweed/hemlock x Plan review x Year 4 Grassland management x WIGS/WGS annual works x Site risk assessment x Tree safety survey across x 2011 the whole estate (as prescribed by the Thin woodland 2011/12 tree survey) on map x Key Ride management x x Volunteer programme x x N Footpath clearance x Species monitoring x x Removal of Holly Remove graffitti x x and Sycamore in Wood Walk x x Monitor fencing, litter and x x parkland furniture 1:5000 Manage ragwort x x Maintain hedges x x &V Phone mast Review leases/ agreements x Footpath Ongong actions in CSS x # access on foot Control bramble in x new planting % vehicle access x conservation cut grass

native woodland plantation hedge path

Manage blackthorn/ nettles x x car park x x Remove non-native invasive spp. river Retain core wood as habitat piles x x built structure

Maintain sports facility Wisteria Circle x residential housing chestnut avenue Maintain Sunken grazing Garden x corral amenity grassland

Restore ornamental ornamental planting pond x road # pond Tree safety works x Scrub River chess Control scrub xx x Clear leat of debris x © Crown copyright and database rights 2012 Ordnance Survey 100019606. Use of this data is subject to terms and conditions. You are not permitted to copy, sub-licence, distribute or sell any of this data to third parties in any form. (This restriction may not apply to HCC and its licenced contractors agents and partners.) 15.7 Habitat Action Plan – Year Five

15.8 Grounds Maintenance Contract Actions for Chorleywood House Estate

KEY DESCRIPTION Grass - Rotary Cut - F9.9 Conservation Grassland Management (Cut & Lift) - F10 Grass – Grazing

Tennis Court - F15

Flower & Shrub Beds - F26 Dog Bin - F45

Litter Bin - F44

Bench

Footpath Clearance - F9.13

To be read in conjunction with the TRDC Grounds Maintenance contract.

15.9 Conservation of Heritage

There are several heritage features which can be found within the grounds of the Local Nature Reserve. The buildings and their conservation is detailed in section 13.2. The additional features include the formal pond, the wisteria circle, the leat and the Sunken Garden. The heritage features date from the time when Lady Ela owned the grounds. The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate spend a considerable amount of time maintaining and enhancing these features. A major project in 2011/12, for example, was to drain, clean, re-seal and restock the formal ‘fire’ pond which is located near Chorleywood House. The Friends also ensure that the leat is regularly cleared of debris, the wisteria circle is pruned and trained and the Sunken Garden is maintained and enhanced throughout the year.

15.10 Capital Works

15.10.1 2011/12

During 2011/12 the majority of Lady Ela Drive (the access road from the site entrance down to the T-junction) will be resurfaced.

15.11 Habitat Action Plan Specifications

15.11.1 Grassland Management

15.11.1.1 Cut and Lift

Cut and lift operations to be carried out under formal contract arrangement to ensure continuity of management and quality of work. • Cut and lift meadow area shown between 14 August and 7 September. • Cut to minimum height 50mm. • All arisings to be removed from site following a 48 hour drying period. • Application of fertilisers and herbicides to be prohibited. • All arisings to disposed of and/or sold in the most environmentally friendly way possible.

15.11.1.2 Amenity

Amenity mowing to be carried out within the Three Rivers District Council Grounds Maintenance Contract. • Minimum four cuts following 14 June throughout growing season. • Cut height to match 50mm as closely as possible within constraints.

15.11.2 Grazing

Grazing of species rich fields as indicated to be carried through use of the Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust “flying flock”/appropriate grazing stock. • Graze agreed fields for a minimum of ten weeks between April and October. • Minimum sward height to remain greater than 50mm throughout grazed area throughout the year. • No supplementary feeding to be permitted except mineral licks in suitable containers. Sheep nuts may be required to catch sheep, or needed for other specific animal welfare reasons. • Mechanical weeding only (spot spray/wipe may be applicable in exceptional circumstances, with officers permission).

15.11.2.1 Stock Fencing

• Wire fencing shall not be less than 1.05m high constructed using galvanised 4mm mild steel plain or 2.5mm barbed wire, or equivalent. • Straining posts should not be less than 125mm top diameter, 2.1m long at a spacing not exceeding 1.5m. • Struts shall be 65mm top diameter, 2.1m long and notched into the straining post. • Intermediate posts shall be 65mm top diameter, 1.7m long and at a spacing not exceeding 3.5m. • Install v type kissing gates where appropriate for pedestrian access. Kissing gates need to be stock proof and have a self-closing mechanism (sprung) with latch. The gate must close reliably to the exterior surround post. • One field gate to be fitted to each grazed area as per the Countryside Stewardship Scheme specification.

15.11.3 Meadow Seeding

• Two (approximately 10m x 10m) irregular plots to be located on largest northerly field (6852 of the Countryside Stewardship Scheme agreement). • Initial vegetation survey (using DAFOR scale) of trial plots to be carried out. • Plot areas to be lightly scarified to create a mosaic of patches of bare earth and grassland. • Seed sown by hand with sand from seed harvest taken from Chorleywood Common to aid even distribution. The agreed seed mix should be suitable for the soil type of the plots. • Seed raked in and areas fenced off to improve establishment in initial year. • Plots monitored in following years to identify any increase in biodiversity.

15.11.4 Woodland Management

The objective of the woodland management is to encourage broadleaved regeneration, e.g. in Dell Wood and the woodland surrounding the Scout camp.

The work identified below includes actions identified in the TRDC Woodland Management Plan (see map below for areas) and the Woodland Grant Scheme.

• Trees to be identified and thinned to increase diversity of species and age structure within the woods, whilst increasing light to the wood floor to encourage ground flora development and allow natural regeneration (or if necessary appropriate planting). • Removal of selected non native species, e.g. laurel, conifers will be carried out in order to restore a more locally characteristic woodland structure. • All trees should be positively identified by an appropriate officer before works are carried out. Large trees to be felled identified well in advance and marked clearly to allow effective consultation/information to users and stems to be cut into long lengths and stacked securely in an appropriate position as dead wood habitat piles. • Any trees may be removed for reasons of safety, with particular reference to proximity of heavily used Rights of Way and amenity areas. • Trees may be removed which are considered to be of lesser importance to the landscape character of the area, and whose removal will facilitate effective long- term management and encourage natural generation. • Desire lines to be cleared to maintain access. • All works to be carried out October -– February to create minimum disturbance to wildlife. • Areas of work should be identified to capitalise on existing weaknesses within the canopy and current tree stocks. • All understorey old coppice components will be coppiced as per above specification, and allowed to regenerate naturally. • Stumps of large felled standards to be treated to prevent re-growth. • Any replanting, if deemed necessary, will be carried out at 2m x 2m spacing, using species locally abundant to the work area. Bare root transplants will be used to supplement regeneration of existing understorey. Planting of 60 - 90cm bare root stock is to be used, all installed in plastic tree tubes where appropriate. • Any brash to be chipped into corral. • Removal of small areas of holly in Wood Walk to increase diversity of ground flora.

56 • Glades and rides should be maintained and new ones created where appropriate. Rides should be a minimum of 7m wide with scalloped edges to create sections that are wider, and to maximise edge habitat.

57 Location of wooded areas within Chorleywood House Estate

15.11.4.1 Community Plantation

Works to the Community Plantation aim to increase the biodiversity of the area and aid the development of the wood, as well as reflecting the actions identified in the TRDC Woodland Management Plan. • Thinning areas should be carried out to increase diversity of species and age structure within the woods, encouraging ground flora development and natural regeneration. Thinning should be carried out in small amounts, no more than 30% of the plantation to discourage bramble regeneration. All roots to be removed on any thinned trees. • Stakes and shelters to be removed from trees at suitable times. • Creation of paths, rides and glades to be agreed by CMS officers/TRDC/ Friends of Chorleywood House Estate, following site visit. Path edges to be scalloped to encourage species such as butterflies. • Crown lift tree branches from trunk to create a well balanced structure to individual trees. • Control of any non native regeneration, e.g. Sycamore saplings should be carried out and all roots removed. • Blackthorn should be controlled to prevent further spread, e.g. through cutting and mattocking out roots. • Rides to be cut annually until such a time that adjacent woodland is sufficiently mature to suppress grass growth.

58 15.11.5 Chestnut Avenue

Any scrub or small trees should be removed to improve the Pink Chestnut trees that line the Chestnut Avenue. Ongoing strimming and grass cutting four times a year, should then be carried out to maintain the area. Arisings removed if necessary and composted in the compound.

15.11.6 Japanese Knotweed and Ragwort Control

Control should be undertaken as per the Environment Agency’s code of practice for the management, destruction and disposal of Japanese Knotweed. Ragwort control should be carried out, e.g. on Dell Field with the use of citronella spray and also hand-pulling under the guidance of CMS officers. Other fields should also be monitored and controlled as necessary.

15.11.7 Replacement of Failed Transplants and Bramble Removal (‘Beating Up’)

• Replacement of failed transplants to maintain original stocking level is essential, work to be carried out November – January. • Removal of bramble from felled areas by pulling will be necessary at least annually to reduce competition. Work to be carried out February and August.

15.11.8 Coppice

The extent of areas to be re-coppiced should be identified on site by an appropriate officer before work commences.

• All stools within the agreed area should be coppiced to a height of not less than 20cm. • All cuts shall slope upwards towards the centre of the stool to aid water shedding. • Following completion of the coppicing, the stool will need to be protected from deer grazing.

15.11.9 Deer Baskets

• Baskets are made from the cut brash generated during coppicing. • Straight stakes about 1.5m in length should be separated from the cut material, 2- 5cm in diameter, and sharpened at one end. • Stakes are hammered in around the coppice stool, leaving a gap of about 0.5m all the way around the stool with stakes 60 - 90cm apart. • Thin brash less than one-inch diameter and around 2m or more in length is then woven through the stakes. Brash should be reasonably straight but this is not as critical as with the stakes. Weaving is alternated around each stake to make it tighter. Knock down the woven brash to squeeze them together. • The basket should be over a metre tall to protect against muntjac. Stakes should be cut so that they are the same height.

59 15.11.10 Coralroot Bittercress

Limited hand clearance of over shading vegetation, usually holly, to increase spring light levels to the woodland floor shall be undertaken as part of an agreed volunteer activity programme.

15.11.11 Bird and Bat Boxes

The specific designs, locations and installation of bird and bat boxes should be agreed with TRDC/CMS Officers and liaison with other specific groups such as the Hertfordshire and Middlesex Bat Group.

15.11.12 Orchard

15.11.12.1 Orchard Planting

• Maiden fruit trees must be a minimum of one year old and 1m high. Standard fruit trees must have a clear stem of 2m supporting a well branched head. • All orchard tree planting must use root stock which is vigorous ; (e.g. M25 -apple, Brompton - plum and F12/1 - cherry or similar) and will produce a standard tree with 2m of clear stem for apple, pear and cherry or 1.5m of clear stem for plums and damson. • Plant between November and March, but do not plant in waterlogged soils, or during periods of frost or drought. • Trees should be pit planted with the pit deep enough and wide enough to contain the full depth and width of the root system with room to spare. The graft union must be at least 75mm above ground level. • Trees must be protected from grazing animals. No protection may be fastened to the trees and any stakes used must not damage tree roots. • Until the trees have become established they are to be kept clear of competitive weeds. This can be by carried out by using a suitable mulch such as well-rotted farmyard manure. The mulch must not extend beyond 1m from the base of the tree. • Newly planted trees are to be lightly pruned as necessary so they develop into standard trees with clean, upright stems and open, well branched crowns. • Young trees that die must be replaced as soon as possible. • If evidence of any replanting on a former orchard, any information available should be used as leads for varieties/tree habitat for new planting. • Planting spacing should be 8m x 8m, but any plums can be planted closer and cherry at 10m spacing as a separate row on the north side of the orchard. • There will be a need to consider the proximity to other plant species, e.g. Hawthorn to try and reduce the likelihood for potential disease outbreaks.

15.11.12.1.1 Orchard Tree Guards

• Tree guards must be used to protect the trees from damage by bark stripping for a minimum of ten years. All protection must be erected and then checked on a regular basis to ensure that it is not damaging the tree or inhibiting tree growth. • Fence guards must provide sufficient clearance so grazing animals cannot reach within 1m of the stem of the tree. They must be soundly built and adequate to protect the tree for the duration of the agreement.

15.11.13 Hedge Planting

• Plant using 40 - 60cm bare root transplants of locally appropriate species. • 4 - 6 plants to be planted per metre in two parallel staggered rows. • Plants to be protected from rabbit damage by use of canes and spirals or fencing if appropriate. • Planting to be kept weed free for a three year period, ideally using organic mulch or plastic strip.

15.11.13.1 Volunteer Planted

• Failed plants to be identified and replaced during first season following planting.

15.11.13.2 Contactor Planted

• Contract to be set up to cover establishment, i.e. planting and aftercare over three years.

15.11.14 Footpaths

Agreement on an appropriate standard of provision for access, both on definitive footpaths and those of an informal nature needs to be agreed. Following agreement this standard can be achieved and maintained through various mechanisms. • Annual actions within the agreed volunteers programme. • Contract works if necessary.

15.11.15 Protected Species

15.11.15.1 Great Crested Newts

Checks for the presence of Great Crested Newts should be undertaken before any pond maintenance is carried out. If found, a protected species licence would be required before any management is carried out.

15.11.15.2 Bats

Due to the potential disturbance to bats using a hibernation site when restoring the bat door, a licence may be required. Further advice should be sort from the Hertfordshire and Middlesex Bat Group.

61 15.12 Proposed Chorleywood House Estate Habitat Action Plan Actions

Potential Cost Year Activity Partner Funding Outcome Estimate Sources TRDC Annually as Control Japanese Grounds per contract Knotweed and TRDC N/A On-going Maintenance specification Hemlock Contract TRDC Annually as TRDC/CMS Grounds per contract Amenity cut grass N/A On-going /contractor Maintenance specification Contract TRDC/ Annually as Countryside per contract Cut and lift meadow TRDC N/A On-going Stewardship specification Scheme (CSS) On-going As per contact Site risk assessment TRDC Tree TRDC N/A (latest survey specification and tree safety survey contract 2011/2012) Annually as TRDC/Friends Mow woodland ride/ TRDC/ per contract N/A of/Woodland On-going footpath clearance Friends of specification Grant Scheme Annually as Friends of and per contract Species monitoring Volunteers N/A volunteer On-going specification hours TRDC Annually as Grounds TRDC/ per contract Remove graffiti N/A Maintenance On-going Friends of specification Contract/ Friends of Monitor and maintain TRDC Annually as benches and bins and Grounds per contract TRDC N/A On-going other park Maintenance specification infrastructure Contract Annually as Monitor litter/litter pick TRDC/ Volunteer per contract N/A On-going if required Friends of hours specification Annually as TRDC/ TRDC/ Friends per contract Manage ragwort £200 On-going Friends of of specification £11 per metre including Annually as Maintain hedges, Contractors guards. per contract TRDC On-going where appropriate /Friends of Coppice/c specification hip brash work at £550/day Annually as Review leases/ per contract TRDC TRDC N/A On-going agreements specification Annually as £300/day Control bramble in Contractor/ per contract for TRDC On-going new planting CMS specification contractor £30 per TRDC/ Investigate orchard Completed – Friends of/ tree Countryside 2008 location and organise orchard now Volunteers including Stewardship planting established stakes Scheme

62 and (CSS)/ Awards guards for All Scout camp management – discuss with scout Completed – £3,000 - Woodland camp. discussed CMS/TRDC £4,000 for Grant 2008 If agreed: Maintain but no further /contractors woodland Scheme/ access. Secure mixed action work TRDC broadleaved agreed regeneration, thin as appropriate. Community Plantation: Thin Plantation. Increase number of glades. TRDC/ Woodland Manage nettles. /CMS Grant Remove non native 2008 volunteers/ £1,000 Scheme/ Completed species, e.g. Friends of/ TRDC/CMS Sycamore that have contractors staff time been agreed. Retain core wood as habitat piles. Remove stakes and shelters. On-going – TRDC/ Improve meadow with TRDC grant depends on 2008 Friends of £1,000 reseeding trail. (via Friends of ) grazing /CMS outcome 2008 Install kissing gate. Contractor £600 TRDC Completed Remove trip hazard on CMS CMS staff and 2008 N/A Completed bank. Monitor bank. volunteers volunteer time Remove small areas of holly in Wood Walk. Friends of/ CWHE 2008 Cut back glades and N/A Woodland Completed Volunteers paths to increase Grant Scheme access. Clear scrub/ elder 2008 Contractor £600 TRDC Completed along Chestnut Ave. Remove some 2008 Contractor £300/day TRDC Completed bramble in Dell Field. Remove blackthorn in field adjacent to 2008 Contractor £300/day TRDC Completed Chorleywood Dell Nature Reserve. £12 per bench TRDC/CMS Install rustic benches, CMS/ (wood 2008 staff and On-going as appropriate. Friends of materials Volunteer time taken on site) £1.10/met Control bramble in Contractor/ re + £240 2008 south easterly cut and TRDC Completed Friends of for skip lift field. ex. VAT Improve wooden TRDC/ Completed/ 2008 bollards by parkland N/A Friends of Friends of on-going as necessary. Thin around feature TRDC Tree 2008 Contractor £300/day Completed trees, in parkland. contract 2008 Update entrance sign TRDC N/A TRDC Completed

63 with contact number. £8000 Improve entrance TRDC/ (other TRDC/ Friends 2008 Completed gates. Friends of estimates of to follow) TRDC/ TRDC/ Friends 2008 Install leaflet store. £500 Completed Friends of of TRDC Contractor/ Grounds 2008 Restore bat door. CMS/ £300 Completed Maintenance HMBG Contract Cut and rake Dell 2008 TRDC N/A TRDC Completed Mound. Remove non native 2008 Volunteers N/A Friends of Completed daffodil bulbs. Maintain grassland around conifers: Thin TRDC, canopy as per TRDC including Contractor/ woodland plan. TRDC Tree 2009 CMS/ £1,500 Completed Maintain access. contract/ TRDC Remove any trees that Woodland are unsafe and retain Grant Scheme core wood. TRDC Maintain ornamental Grounds 2009 TRDC N/A On-going pond. Maintenance Contract Chess Valley area: Friends of Remove elder, Friends of 2009 N/A time/ CMS Completed including roots. Large /CMS volunteer time elder to be retained. Wood Walk: Coppice Hazel. Secure Contractor/ TRDC/ Friends 2009 broadleaved CMS & £1,000 of/ Woodland Completed regeneration. Control Friends of Grant Scheme invasive non natives. TRDC/contr Control Scrub in field TRDC/CMS actors/ 2009 adjacent to lawn £500 staff and Completed CMS/ cemetery. Friends of Friends of CMS/ £9 per External Install bird and bat TRDC/ box + funding 2009 Completed boxes on estate. Local installatio sources, e.g. community n. Awards for All Community Woodland: Thin plantation. Improve TRDC/ Woodland path and scallop /CMS Grant 2009 edges. Manage volunteers/ £1,200 Scheme/ Completed blackthorn. Remove Friends of TRDC/ CMS non native spp. /contractors staff time Retain core wood as habitat piles. Completed – majority in CMS/TRDC favour of Public consultation for 2010 CMS/TRDC N/A staff time – 2 grazing – Grazing Project. days now looking for funding for fencing

64 £12 per bench TRDC/CMS Install rustic benches, CMS/ (wood 2010 staff and On-going as appropriate. Friends of materials Volunteer time taken on site) Thin Willow Wands by Not 2010 Chess Valley, if Friends of N/A Friends of necessary necessary. Remove some Contractor/ 2010 £250/day TRDC Completed bramble in Dell Field. CMS Dell Wood: Control Woodland laurel. Cut back Contractor/ Grant 2010 £250/day Completed footpaths to maintain CMS Scheme/ access. TRDC TRDC Maintain ornamental Grounds 2010 TRDC N/A On-going pond. Maintenance Contract £11 per External Plant hedge around Contractor/ metre funding 2010 Completed phone mast. CMS including sources, e.g. guards. Awards for All Community woodland: Friends of/ Remove non-native CMS CMS volunteer 2010 invasive spp. Retain volunteers/ N/A time/ Completed core wood as habitat Friends of Woodland piles. Grant Scheme Contractor/ Control Scrub TRDC/ Friends CMS 2011 (southern cut and lift £250/day of/ CMS Completed volunteers/ field). volunteer time Friends of Organise grazing To be On-going – (including associated CMS/ TRDC/ CMS 2011 costed if looking for fencing) if agreed in TRDC Staff time agreed. funding 2010. Community Woodland: Manage Friends of/ CMS blackthorn /nettles. CMS volunteers/ 2011 Remove non native N/A volunteers/ Completed Friends of/ invasive spp. Retain Woodland TRDC core wood as habitat Grant Scheme piles. Maintain ornamental 2011 TRDC N/A Friends of Completed pond. Community woodland: CMS TRDC/ Friends Remove non native volunteers/ £250/day of/ CMS 2012 invasive species. Friends for volunteers/ Retain core wood as of/Contract contractor Woodland habitat piles. or/TRDC Grant Scheme CMS/TRDC Plan to review and 2012 /Local N/A CMS staff time develop new GAP community

15.13 Equality Impact Assessment

Below is a sample Equality Impact Assessment which relates to the Local Nature Reserve. The assessment judges whether a service or policy has any effect on the

65 Council’s legal equalities duties for different minority groups. Equality Impact Assessments are carried out on any significant management aspect of the Local Nature Reserve which may have a considerable impact on the people using the site. The assessments are used to inform the Local Nature Reserve Management Plan and make any necessary amendments.

Form A – Relevance Test

Function/Service Being Assessed:

1. Populations served/affected : Universal (service covering all residents)?

Targeted (service aimed at a section of the community –please indicate which) ?

2. Is it relevant to the general duty? (see Q and A for definition of ‘general duty’) Which of these three aspects does the function relate to (if any)?:

1 – Eliminating Discrimination 2 – Promoting Equality of Opportunity 3 – Promoting good relations

Is there any evidence or reason to believe that som e groups could be differently affected? Yes No

Which equality categories are affected? Race Age Sexual Orientation Disability Gender Religion

3. What is the degree of relevance? In your view, is the information you have on each category adequate to make a decision about relevance? Yes (specify which categories) All categories.

No (specify which categories)

Are there any triggers for this review (for example is there any public concern that functions/services are being operated in a discriminatory manner?) If yes please indicate which: Yes

4. Conclusion On the basis of the relevance test would you say that there is evidence that a medium or high detrimental impact is likely? (See below for definition) Yes 67 No 15.14 Monitoring and Reviewing

The LNR has a site specific, five year, Management Plan in place. The plan not only follows guidance from Natural England and DEFRA but also organisations such as the Hertfordshire Biological Records Centre, the Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, the Hertfordshire Bat Group and the like.

The Management Plan is set out in such away that it enables success to be monitored and reviewed. Targets, for each of the five years of the Management Plan, are clearly defined. There are tick boxes alongside each action in order to show when an action has been completed and the target achieved.

16 Community Involvement

Three Rivers District is situated in the East of England, on the edge of London. The District covers 8883 hectares, of which 6873 hectares (about 77%) is Green Belt. The population of the Three Rivers District, according to the 2001 census, is 82 848.

The District has large areas of attractive open countryside. In Three Rivers it is not uncommon to travel along leafy lanes surrounded by Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty yet be only minutes away from the M25, Britain's busiest motorway.

Being on the outer fringes of London, communications in the area are very good with road and rail links to London and elsewhere, including the M1, M25, the west coast main line and the Metropolitan Line into central London.

The District is relatively prosperous, yet has pockets of deprivation. There are low levels of employment of 2.15% compared to the national average of 3.35%. Three Rivers has, on average, an index of deprivation of 287. This is a ranking out of all 354 Districts, with 354 being the least deprived area.

16.1 Knowledge and Understanding of the User Community

Research in to the users of the Local Nature Reserve has been undertaken and is an on-going, continuous, process. The research carried out takes various forms, the principal ones being:

• Direct, on-site, surveys/questionnaires of users. • Online surveys of parks and open spaces ( www.greenstat.org.uk ). • Guided walks, on-site, which focus on the past achievements of the management plan as well as future aims and aspirations of the management plan (feedback forms and/or comments cards are always available). • Consultation events are held on site or at appropriate venues and events (feedback forms and/or comments cards are made available). • Opinionmeter questionnaire – these are pre-programmed, mobile, computer units which can be taken to events and venues, as appropriate. • Complaints System.

This range of consultation processes ensures that a wide sector of the community is engaged which helps, in consequence, to inform the direction of site management.

The autumn 2008 survey results for the Local Nature Reserve, for which there were 60 completed surveys, show that:

Gender of LNR Users

54 For the District: 52 53% of the 52% Female users are female 50 48% Male and 47 % male. 48

Percentage (%) Percentage 46 44 Male Female

Ethnicity of LNR Users

The ethnicity of users 100 For the District: can be broken down to: 80 92% White 98% White British 60 1.3% Mixed 2% Any other white 4.6% Asian/Asian British background 40 1% Black/Black British

Percentage (%) Percentage 20 0.74% Chinese/other

0 White British Other White Backgound

The age of Age of LNR Users For the District: LNR users is: 40 21% under 16 4% 16-19 0% 14-24 30 5% 20-24 5% 25-34 6% 25-29 20 12% 35-44 23% 30-44 20% 45-59 31% 45-54 10 12% 55-64 5% 60-64 Percentage(%) 29% 65-74 0 8% 65-74 10% 75+ 14 - 24 25 - 34 35 - 44 45 - 54 55 - 64 65 - 74 75+ 8% 75+

69 Do you have a Disability? For the District:

In terms of 100 disabilities 2.7% of the 8% of users 80 population is claiming considered 60 themselves Disability to have a 40 Living Allowance.

disability and (%) Percentage 20 92% did not. 0 Yes No

Frequency of Visits Most users (30%) visit the 35 LNR once or 30 25 twice a week 20 with 22% 15 visiting most 10 days and 12% 5 Percentage (%) Percentage 0 as part of a s y y y ek tl l it daily routine. e th s Daily W igh n t Da n s a rt Mo Seldom o e First Vi M c Fo wi /T e c On

Satisfaction of Design and Appearance These results also show 99% of users found Very Good the appearance of the LNR to Fairly Good very or fairly 1 good. Rating Neither Good nor Satisfaction Satisfaction Poor 0% 50% 100%

The survey also showed that the majority of people utilising the Local Nature Reserve do so to walk their dogs (70%). 30% of users visit to walk around the grounds whilst 37% visit to get some fresh air, 28% to relax and think and 25% to help keep fit. Other popular activities include enjoying the peace and quite (20%),

70 enjoying the beauty of the surroundings (18%), observing the birds and other wildlife (13%), to improve health (10%) and to see the flowers and trees (8%).

16.2 On-site Questionnaire Results for 2008 - 2011

The summer 2009 (83 interviewees), the summer 2010 (74 interviewees) and the summer 2011 (67 interviewees) surveys, when compared with the 2008 survey for the LNR show that:

How often do you visit the LNR? In 2011 most people 45% 40% (33%) who visit the LNR 35% 2008 do so once or twice a 30% 25% 2009 week. An additional 19% 20% 2010 15% of visitors in 2011 came 10% 2011 most days of the week 5% 0% which is an increase from first once most every once a once two to seldom 2010 when it was 7%. visit or days day month every 2 four or twice a weeks times never week a year

How long have you stayed here today? In 2011 around one third of visitors stayed between one 50% 45% and two hours. An additional 40% 33% stayed between 30 35% 2008 minutes and one hour. This is 30% 2009 25% broadly similar to previous 20% 2010 years. 2011 saw an increase 15% 2011 10% in those staying less than 30 5% minutes with 20% doing so 0% compared to 12% in 2008, 6% less than 30 mins to 1 to 2 hrs 2 to 4 hrs more than 4 30 mins 1 hr hrs in 2009 and 7% in 2010.

Rate the design and appearance The majority of visitors to 120% the LNR rate its design 100% and appearance as very 2008 80% good. Overall 100% of 2009 60% visitors in 2011 felt that 2010 40% the LNR design and 2011 20% appearance is very good 0% or fairly good. This is an Very good Fairly good Neither Fairly poor Very poor improvement on all good nor previous survey years. poor

Rate the cleanliness In all four survey years the 100% 90% majority of visitors to the 80% LNR felt that the standard of 2008 70% cleanliness was very good. 60% 2009 50% There has been an increase 2010 40% in 2011 for those who rated 30% 2011 20% the cleanliness as very 10% 0% good – up to 88% compared Very good Fairly good Neither Fairly poor Very poor to 70% in 2010. good nor poor

Rate the maintenance In all four survey years the 100% majority of visitors to the LNR 90% 80% felt that the maintenance was 70% 2008 very good. As with the 60% 2009 50% cleanliness rating, there was 40% 2010 an increase in 2011 for those 30% 2011 20% who rated the maintenance as 10% 0% very good – up from 69% in Very good Fairly good Neither Fairly poor Very poor 2010 to 92% in 2011. good nor poor

How easy was it to get around? 94% of visitors, compared 100% to 83% in 2008, 95% in 90% 80% 2009 and 81% in 2010, 70% 2008 stated that it was very 60% 2009 50% easy to get around the 2010 40% LNR. In 2011 100% of 30% 2011 20% visitors stated that the 10% 0% LNR was very easy or Very easy Fairly easy Neither Fairly Very fairly easy to get around. easy nor difficult difficult difficult

72 What is your overall impression of the LNR?

100% 95% of LNR visitors in 90% 2011 rated their overall 80% 70% 2008 impression of the LNR as 60% 2009 being very good. Those 50% 40% 2010 rating the site as very 30% 2011 good showed an increase 20% 10% from 88% in 2010, 90% in 0% 2009 and 72% in 2008. Very good Fairly good Neither Fairly poor Very poor good nor poor

16.3 Consultation Methods and the Management Plan

As part of a 2008 User’s Survey it was apparent that users would like a number of improvements or changes to the Local Nature Reserve. The suggestions included the planting of an orchard, additional wildflowers to be planted, replacing styles with gates and increasing the number of litter bins. However over 50% of those surveyed stated that the liked and enjoyed the Local Nature Reserve just the way it is.

At the present time an orchard and additional wildflowers and due to be planted within the grounds of the Local Nature Reserve. Styles have also been identified to be removed and replaced, where necessary.

Additional result from survey show that the majority of people (83%) drive to the LNR with 15% walking and 2% using public transport. 85% of users also visit the Local Nature Reserve for between 30 minutes and 2 hours.

Length of Visit Mode of Travel to the LNR

50 80 40 30 60 20 40 Percentage(%) Percentage (%) Percentage 10 20 0 0 < 30 mins 0.5hrs - 1 hr 1 - 2 hrs 2 - 4 hrs Walk Car Public Transport

16.4 Leadership and Partners

Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve sits within the boundary of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve is an important site within the District and within its local community. As such a number of organisations and partners are involved in the site, these include:

The Countryside Management Service (CMS)

73 Chilterns AONB Conservation Board DEFRA Natural England Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust Hertfordshire and Middlesex Bat Group Hertfordshire Biological Records Centre Rickmansworth and Chorleywood Residents Association Friends of Chorleywood House Estate Chorleywood Community Orchard Licensees based at Chorleywood House Estate LNR

All of the groups are directly involved in the site or help inform the Management Plan. Many of the organisations are represented in the Friends of group or have regular input in to site based projects.

TRDC is responsible for the overall management of the site and day-to-day maintenance is undertaken as part of the Grounds Maintenance Contract. TRDC works closely with the CMS to manage the site. TRDC and the CMS organise meetings throughout the year with a variety of partners that are involved in the LNR. Meetings may focus on current projects, future works or proposed management, depending on the interests of the partner(s).

16.5 Community Led and Focussed Activities

A variety of community led/focussed events and activities are held at Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve and include:

• Charity walk in aid of BEHT, a registered charity working towards changing people’s lives in India through education, health care, providing for the elderly, animal welfare and the environmental projects. www.beht.org

• Clements Danes Fair – fair held within the grounds. The event includes a dog show, tombola and games as well as selling cakes and drinks.

• Nordic Walking - a sociable and effective exercise technique which involves walking with specially designed poles to improve fitness. http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=Nordic%20Walking.pdf

• Guided Walks – run in conjunction with the Countryside Management Service. Several are run each year and focus on the success of past projects, the aim of future projects, particular species, and the like. http://www.hertslink.org/cms/

• Health Walks – free walks led by trained volunteer leaders which aim to get people outdoors and more active to increase their fitness levels. Organised in conjunction with the Countryside Management Service. The Health Walks at Chorleywood House Estate are run with the Children’s Centre and is buggy friendly. Taster sessions were run in 2010 and monthly walks in 2011. http://www.hertslink.org/cms/healthwalks/

74 • Chiltern Society Walks – usually an annual guided walk led by the Chilterns Society which is a registered charity working to maintain the uniqueness of the Chilterns. http://www.chilternsociety.org.uk/

• Yoga sessions, for people of all ages, have taken place since the summer of 2009. http://www.yogatree.org.uk/

• Bat and Moth Nights – special family events such as bat and moth nights are run where moth traps are set up and people are given bat detectors to use.

• Bird Walks led by the RSPB – free events for anyone with any interest in birds. http://www.rspb.org.uk/events/details.aspx?id=tcm:9-235462

• Children’s wildlife activities – free family events such as bug hunts and insect hotel building activities are organised during school holidays. These events are aimed at children and their families.

• Orienteering events – organised by a local school, now in its sixth year (2012).

The table below shows a summary of the events that have taken place at Chorleywood House Estate during 2010.

DATE EVENT ORGANISATION/CAUSE Dates throughout year Health Walks – Taster Countryside Management Sessions Service for the general public 18 March Orienteering Local School 23 May Football Tournament Chorleywood Common Youth Football Club 27 June Nature Event – bugs and TRDC and the butterflies Countryside Management Service for children/family groups 27 July Nature Event – Bird box TRDC and the and insect hotel building Countryside Management Service for children/family groups 15 August Grazing Event – TRDC and Countryside consultation on proposals Management Service for for cattle grazing the local community August weekends in 2010 Yoga – free sessions Yoga Tree for the local community Weekends 11 September Art in the Summer House Herts Visual Arts Forum – 3 October inc 2 October Apple Day Chorleywood Community Orchard/local community 6 November Orchard Planting Day Chorleywood Community Orchard/local community 11 December Orchard Planting Day Chorleywood Community Orchard/local community

75 In addition to the above activities a local resident approached the Council about the practicalities of establishing a Community Orchard within the Local Nature Reserve. After some research it became apparent that orchards had, historically, been present within the grounds of the Estate. Since agreeing to the proposal the ‘Chorleywood Community Orchard’ group has become established and gone from strength to strength. After a series of meetings a great amount of interest and support has been shown for the project from the public. For example, numerous members of the public have put their names forward as tree sponsors. The first trees were planted in 2009. The second phase of tree planting took place in 2010. Both planting days were organised as community volunteer days.

16.6 Volunteering Opportunities

Since the establishment of the Friends group in 1998 volunteer tasks have regularly taken place at the Local Nature Reserve. The volunteer tasks are based on activities which have been worked up in conjunction with the Friends group, Three Rivers District Council and the Countryside Management Service. By focussing on the strengths and interests of the group it is probable that, in any one year, tasks undertaken will include:

• Pruning and training the 100 year old wisteria circle. • Cutting back nettles under trees on the Parkland where the contractors mowers can not reach. • Digging over, pruning, tending and replanting the historic Sunken Garden. • Pruning the hedges along the football pitch and Lady Ela Drive. • Removing hybrid daffodils from Wood Walk to allow native species to flourish. • Cutting back holly and brambles from the footpath in Wood Walk. • Strimming the grass paths in Community Woodland. • Clearing scrub from the view point at end of the chestnut avenue. • Pulling ragwort in Dell Field. • Cutting and raking the nettles in the Dell Nature Reserve. • Clearing leaves and debris from the leat. • Removing tree guards from saplings on Dell Mound, and crown raising.

The Countryside Management Service also runs a ‘Wednesday Volunteer Group’ which regularly visits Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve to undertake tasks such as removal of invasive species, ragwort control and habitat creation.

The recently established Chorleywood Community Orchard group has several volunteer opportunities throughout the year. The tasks range from actually planting and maintaining the fruit trees to holding an ‘Apple Day’ event for the public.

Several of the groups based at Chorleywood House Estate, such as the Youth Football Club and the Scout group, have opportunities for volunteers to become involved.

Three Rivers District Council is registered with the Centre for Volunteer Services which makes people aware of volunteering opportunities within the area. The volunteering opportunities are also regularly mentioned on websites and within press releases.

76 A selection of the minutes from the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate and the Chorleywood Community Orchard group, as well as their Constitutions can be found in the appendices.

16.6.1 Volunteer Time Sheet

A sample, six month, volunteer time sheet for the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate is shown below.

Volunteer Time Sheet CHORLEYWOOD HOUSE ESTATE

Dates covered: From: 1 January 2007 To: 5 June 2007 . .

No. of Name of Volunteer No. of Date Tasks Carried Out Volunteer Cost Per Day Total Cost Group/Individual Volunteers Days 16 January Footpath clearance by River Tim, Anthony, Janet, Robin, 5 0.5 £250 £125 2007 Chess Roger. 23 January Footpath Clearance by Tim, Janet, Anthony, Roger, 6 0.5 £300 £150 2007 River Chess Mitch, Marion Mulch Sunken Garden; train Tim, Anthony, Robin, Roger, 06 February wisteria; clear weeds from Monty, Mitch, Anne, Eleanor, 9 0.5 £450 £225 2007 hedge below Cemetery. Marion 19 February Dig up, and pull brambles in Tim, Anthony, Janet, Eleanor, 8 0.5 £400 £200 2007 Dell Field; clear le at. Monty, Mitch, Marion, Roger 06 March Cancelled – bad weather/

2007 waterlogged ground Clear scrub round standing Tim, Robin, Roger, Anthony, 20 March trees in Field 4K. Remove Mitch, David, Janet, Eleanor, 10 0.5 £500 £250 2007 weeds from young hedge Anne, Marian Clearing holly and brambles Robin, Anthony, Janet, David, 03 April 2007 8 0.5 £400 £200 from paths in W ood Walk Eleanor, Monty, Mitch, Roger. Clearing newly planted site Tim, Robin, Roger, Janet, 17 April 2007 in Woodwalk; opening up Monty, Mitch, David, Marian, 9 0.5 £450 £225 paths; raising old fence. Archie Tim, Eleanor, Roger, Janet, 1 May 2007 As 17 April 8 0.5 £400 £200 Monty, Mitch, Marian, Anthony Tim, Eleanor, Mitch, Robin, 15 May 2007 As 17 April 8 0.5 £400 £200 Roger, Anthony, Janet, Ann, Strim nettles in Reserve, 1 June 2007 Tim & Robin 2 0.5 £100 £50 and along Lady Ela Drive Rake nettles in Reserve; Tim, Roger, Anthony, Mitch, £20 0 5 June 2007 8 0.5 £400 we ed hedge in L.E Dr. Anne, Brenda, Janet, Eleanor 84 £20 25 6.5 Totals

16.7 Targets for Increasing Involvement

There are clear targets set out within the Management Plan for increasing the involvement within Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve. For example, we wish to expand the number of people attending the volunteer tasks and events.

TRDC also has a procedure in place whereby it can monitor the number and type of bookings that are taken each year from public groups.

The number of volunteer hours is recorded after each session throughout the year. These hours are then totalled.

The number of events and attendees at each event are also recorded.

77 Frequent guided walks are held throughout the year and are based on the actions detailed in the Management Plan.

The principal targets are to:

Increase the membership of the Friends group by 5% each year. Increase the number of volunteer hours at the site by 5% each year. Increase the number of attendees at events such as guided walks by 5% each year. Continue to run family activities during school holidays that are fully booked. Help ensure that the clubs associated with Chorleywood House Estate remain viable. Associated clubs/groups are included in the management of the site through liaison meetings and any relevant activities.

Monitoring the success of projects at the site is reflected in the:

Results of the annual User Survey. Results of the on-going GreenStat Survey. Membership numbers of the Friends group. The number of volunteer tasks held on site. The number of volunteer hours recorded for the site. The number of attendees recorded at events and activities such as guided walks and Nordic Walking courses. The number of attendees recorded at the family school holiday activities.

16.8 Skills and Resources required for Community Involvement

An officer from the Countryside Management Service and/or the Three Rivers District Council Biodiversity Projects Officer attends any volunteer task in which supervision or direction is required. All of the volunteer tasks have been devised by qualified officers along with the input of the Friends group. In addition to the tools owned by the Friends of group, the CMS store a variety of tools which have been purchased by Three Rivers District Council. These tools are available to all of the volunteers and are brought along to the tasks by the CMS as necessary. All tools and training are provided at the start at each volunteer task along with any appropriate risk assessments.

An annual grant of £500 is available to every Friends of group in the District who work on Council owned land. The intention of the grant is that it will cover the cost of insurance, tools, training and any particular events they might like to put on.

TRDC works in partnership with the CMS to provide training opportunities for all volunteer groups. Training covers areas such as risk assessment, first aid and appropriate tool use.

The Projects Officers from the CMS and the Biodiversity Projects Officer from TRDC are able to provide a wide range of support to the community as well as directly through the provision of community events and activities. The Leisure Development Team, which is made up of an Arts Development Officer, Leisure Development Officer, Play Development Officer and a Sports Development Officer, at TRDC is also active in the provision of activities and events for the community.

78 All events such as charity walks work closely with the Biodiversity Projects Officer and the Environmental Protection Team to ensure that the site is in perfect condition for the event and everything runs smoothly on the day.

16.9 Recreation Facilities and Opportunities

There is a great range of recreational facilities and activities available at Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve, these include:

Children’s activities Family events Nordic walking Charity walks and events Guided walks Youth Football Club Public Tennis Courts Lawn Tennis Club Model Railway Society Scout Group Friends of Group

In addition to the above groups and activities there are many informal recreational activities carried out at the site such as bird watching, cycling, running, walking and picnicking.

16.10 Disability Discrimination Act

Chorleywood House Estate would be classified by the Disability Discrimination Act as a “rural and working landscape”. Parts of the Estate are considered to be acceptable for disabled access as some of the paths are surfaced or have a base surface. There are also areas with relatively low gradients.

There is only one style within the Local Nature Reserve which is situated at the bottom of the woodland in the Scout camp. This style will be removed in due course. As and when gates are required, medium mobility kissing gates are installed. These permit manual wheelchairs and standard pushchairs access but also have a RADAR lock on which allows the gates to be fully opened and accessed by medium mobility vehicles.

There are several benches around the Local Nature Reserve. As new benches are installed, or old benches replaced, they are done so with ‘Easyrisers’ (http://www.earth-anchors.com/easy-riser-seatgallerypage ).

These are benches which are produced from sustainable timber which has been certified by the Forestry Commission. Furthermore they have arm rests along the length of the bench which allows those with limited mobility to gain leverage in and out of the bench.

Within the grounds of the Local Nature Reserve there is a picnic table which allows for wheelchair users ( http://www.earth-anchors.com/forest-saver-tri-table-backless- gallery ). It is designed so that wheelchairs can be placed directly at the table and so that those with limited mobility have easy access. The picnic bench is made from recycled plastic.

There are several car parking areas around the Estate. One of the main parking sites is near the entrance and has two designated disabled bays. The bays are situated next to an area of hardstanding within the Local Nature Reserve.

The interpretation and welcome boards are set at a height that permits those in wheelchairs to easily read the information.

17 Marketing

The Marketing Plan was written in 2008 and covers the next three years for marketing of Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve.

TRDC aims to achieve as much as possible by using existing resources, including print, improving the on line presence and issuing press releases. The marketing plan includes information on specific promotions, indentifies lead officers, timescales and any other resources required and how marketing meets our corporate objectives.

The plan also relies on the continued involvement and support of The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate and the many successful partnerships that have been formed.

17.1 Reviews and Updates

The marketing plan is an evolving document which is reviewed regularly. It is also reassessed as and when results from consultation are received and as lessons are learnt as to which promotion methods or types of events prove successful.

17.2 Information Distribution

The Management Plan is available through the Council’s website.

Residents, partners and volunteers also have the opportunity to walk around the Local Nature Reserve and discuss and contribute to future management plans.

Information about Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve is provided through:

1. Press releases to local media, including children’s publications. 2. The Council’s website: on the community noticeboard on the TRDC home page, with a dedicated Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve webpage and through a link to the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate website and that of the Chorleywood Community Orchard website. 3. Three Rivers Times, which is an in-house publication that goes to 38,000 households in the District on a quarterly basis. 4. Easter and Summer Activities brochures which are sent to every pupil in the District and distributed to other venues, health centres, libraries and the Council Offices. 5. Through the Council’s Everyday Active brochure. 6. Through the Council’s noticeboards which are located around the District at 37 sites. 7. With a dedicated leaflet on the Local Nature Reserve which is distributed to the Parish Council Offices (based at the LNR entrance), libraries, leisure venues, Council Offices, doctor’s surgeries, the Aquadrome LNR café, etc.

Ways to get involved: The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate was formed in 1998. Along with supporting TRDC, the Friend’s aims include ‘to promote and encourage public awareness of the Estate though publicity, consultation, groups of volunteers and liaison with interested organisations’.

The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate and the Chorleywood Community Orchard websites have detailed information on their work and encourage people to join the groups. The websites have a link from the Council’s website. The Friends of group also issue a regular newsletter giving an update on the Local Nature Reserve.

Comment cards/how to get involved postcards are available to pick up from the Parish Council Offices (which is located just inside the main entrance to the LNR).

17.3 Information Presentation

There is a variety of information about the Local Nature Reserve; this is presented in a number of ways.

81 17.3.1 On-Site Signage

Additional directional signage, from the M25, was erected during 2009.

There are several interpretation boards located around the Local Nature Reserve. These boards were part funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and contain information about the site, have a map of the Local Nature Reserve and show the various walks which may be enjoyed. There are also contact numbers for Three Rivers District Council and the Countryside Management Service.

17.3.2 Print

The current leaflets have strong visuals and good information, including a map with the different walks available. These are available at the Council Offices, the Parish Council Offices, local libraries, doctor’s surgeries, leisure venues and are available as a PDF download on the TRDC website.

17.3.3 Website and other Social Media

The Local Nature Reserve has its own page on the Council’s website which includes information on the history of the reserve, wildlife, different walks available, how to get there, sports clubs and any organised events. The web page has additional information to encourage schools to use the Estate as an outdoor classroom and suggests some activities children could carry out.

During 2008 a section on “All things Green” was incorporated in to the webpage. The aim of this section is to show people that recycling is done by users and the reasons and benefits for leaving fallen trees and the like.

There are web links to the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate, the Chorleywood Community Orchard and the Green Stat survey website. Three Rivers District Council also has a Green Flag section on the website which is linked from specific LNR pages of the site, with information on what the Green Flag Award is, how people can help and why we want to fly the flag.

The Three Rivers District Council web pages follow Government guidelines and are aimed at adult residents.

TRDC now utilises Facebook to keep its residents up-to-date. Residents can ‘like’ Chorleywood on Facebook and become a friend in order to receive regular updates straight to their news feed. This includes updates on events, news and messages relating to Chorleywood House Estate.

Residents can also ‘follow’ TRDC on Twitter, watch the TRDC channel on You Tube or look at photostreams on Flickr.

17.3.4 Press Releases

Press releases are featured on the home page of the Council’s website and also generate good radio coverage from Heart FM and Radio 3 Counties as well as editorial in local media. Radio 3 Counties listeners tend to be over 45 years whilst

82 Heart FM listeners are in the 24 -35 years bracket. Primary Times and other similar publications aimed at children are also used for editorial on events and activities.

Three Rivers District Council aim to issue six press releases per year relating to the Local Nature Reserve, encouraging people to get involved and promoting any public events. Where possible the press releases are followed up with photographs and an additional press release on how the event or activity was received.

17.4 Attracting Non-Users, Infrequent Users, Under-represented and Hard to Reach Groups

We understand current users to be mainly older residents and dog walkers during the week with families visiting at weekends and during school holidays for picnics and pond dipping. Most visitors are also are car users.

A secondary school uses the Estate on an annual basis for orienteering and it is also used as a film location.

In an effort to reach non-users using existing resources we will:

Distribute print to a wide audience to help raise awareness of the LNR to visitors from outside the area. TRDC also makes the leaflets available in the new Aquadrome LNR café as visitors will also be interested in Chorleywood House Estate.

All information on the Council’s website is available in different languages and audio described.

Regular press releases will help raise awareness of the LNR.

Consultation with users began in November 2008 and this has been repeated annually to help provide a greater insight into the reasons behind use and non-use of the site.

From 2009 Three Rivers District Council has had Mosaic profiling available which has provided us with a greater insight into residents, their likes and dislikes and the best methods of communicating with them.

Mosaic profiling, combined with the consultation, will improve our knowledge of users but more importantly help identify non-users and hard to reach groups.

17.5 Encouraging Site Use

There are many differing ways in which use of the Local Nature Reserve is encouraged; the main ones are detailed below.

17.5.1 Annual Activities

There are lease holders who have regular activities at the Local Nature Reserve. The Youth Football Club, for example, hosts an annual six-a-side challenge. Information on the clubs and groups who use the Estate is available on the Council’s website. The lease holders provide excellent opportunities for children, young people and adults to participate in sports such as tennis and football.

17.5.2 Regular Activities for Children and Families

Organised nature events during school holidays include build a bird box and insect hotel, which are promoted through Three Rivers Times, press releases, the Summer/Easter Activities brochures and on-line. These events are usually fully booked.

17.5.3 Regular Activities for Adults

In partnership with the CMS, guided nature and health walks are available at certain times during the year. These are promoted through both the Council and the CMS websites and through press releases.

The Council’s Everyday Active programme, which encourages residents to participate in regular exercise, has included a programme for Nordic Walking at the Local Nature Reserve. The Everyday Active brochure is produced three times a year and sent to a mailing list as well as distributed to leisure venues, libraries, health centres, etc.

17.5.4 Annual and Charity Events

The Local Nature Reserve is used on an annual basis for events such as charity fun runs. In 2008, for example, the registered charity BEHT held its second annual charity walk within the grounds of the Local Nature Reserve. Such events are promoted through the organisations themselves but we include information on the website and through the community noticeboards.

17.5.5 Press Releases

TRDC plans to issue six press releases per year relating to the Local Nature Reserve and/or activities and events. TRDC also follow up events with further press releases with additional photographs and where possible quotes from attendees.

17.5.6 Friends of Group

The Friends of group produce a regular newsletter which gives an update of the Local Nature Reserve and what has been/will be taking place in terms of management and activities. The Friends of group also maintain a website which has details relating to the Local Nature Reserve and encourages people to get involved.

18 Glossary

AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty BAP Biodiversity Action Plan CMS Countryside Management Service COSHH Care of Substances Hazardous to Health DDA Disability Discrimination Act DEFRA Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs HAP Habitat Action Plan HCC Hertfordshire County Council

84 LNR Local Nature Reserve LOLER Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations PACE Police And Criminal Evidence PCSO Police Community Support Officer SAP Species Action Plan TRDC Three Rivers District Council

19 Appendices

This version of the Management Plan does not contain all of the appendices in order to reduce the file size and allow distribution via email.

19.1 Appendix 1: Wider Context: Policies and Strategies which relate to the LNR

TRDC is continually working towards achieving the aims and objectives of a number of strategies and policies. The overall vision of Three Rivers District Council is:

Three Rivers should remain a prosperous, safe and healthy place where people want and are able to live and work.

19.1.1 Strategic Plan 2010 – 2013

The Council’s Strategic Plan 20010 – 2013 brings together the high level, medium- term and long-term objectives which the Council considers its priorities for the District and focuses on those areas where the Council has a lead role, or can play a key part in delivering or influencing the outcomes. The management of the Local Nature Reserve aims to meet the overarching themes within the Council’s Strategic Plan 2010 - 2013 of:

• Safer • Sustainable • Towards Excellence

The Strategic Plan incorporates the aims of several key documents. For example the objectives of the Local Area Agreement (sets targets for improving services across the whole county), the Local Development Framework (a work in progress that builds on the Community Strategy to bring together the District’s aspirations for the use of land, the development of its economy and the securing of affordable housing) and the Community Strategy (notes the priorities of the LAA and has taken note of those which are pertinent to the aspirations of Three Rivers).

The Strategic Plan also takes in to account policies from central government, the Reform Agenda and Corporate Governance.

There are many strands of the Strategic Plan that the Local Nature Reserve helps fulfil. For example:

1.1: We will work with partners to make the District a safer place 1.2: We will provide a safe and healthy environment

85 2.1: We want to provide equal access to services and facilities for the public within the District and surrounding area and in particular address the needs of vulnerable residents such as elderly, disabled and young people 2.2: We want to maintain a high quality local environment and reduce the eco- footprint of the District 3.1: Customers - We will deliver services to a standard that meet the needs and expectations of all of our customers 3.2: Governance - We will manage our resources to deliver our strategic priorities and service needs

The full Strategic Plan 2010 – 2013 can be viewed at: http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=Strategic_Plan_2010-13.pdf

Links to Local Development Framework and its associated documents can be found at: http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/LocalDevelopmentFramework

19.1.2 Community Strategy

A number of further strategies sit beneath the Council’s Strategic Plan, the most important and significant, in relation to the Local Nature Reserve being:

Community Strategy This Strategy has been developed by members of the Local Strategic Partnership in Three Rivers. It sets out how TRDC is working together to improve the quality of life of people who live and work in the Three Rivers District.

“The Community Strategy is the result of a great deal of information gathering and consultation with residents and visitors over recent months. The results have allowed us to concentrate on issues which can benefit most from partnership working.

Three Rivers is already a great place to live, work or play. We hope that the partnership work that follows as a result of this strategy will improve it even further.”

Steven Halls, Chief Executive, TRDC.

The Strategy was refreshed in 2008. The priorities identified in the refreshed strategy are:

• Anti-social behaviour, crime, and fear of crime • Reducing in equalities (in health, poverty, access to services, prosperity and employment) • Improving the environment • Children and young people's access to education, skills and training • Access to affordable housing

The full Community Strategy can be viewed at:

86 http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=Community%20Strategy%2020 06%20to%202012.pdf

19.1.3 Local Plan and the Emerging Local Development Framework

The Three Rivers Local Plan is the framework for guiding, controlling and facilitating development within the Three Rivers District, for the period 1996-2011. The Local Plan is due to be replaced by the Three Rivers Local Development Framework as the Government has introduced radical changes to the planning system. Three Rivers District Council is currently preparing a replacement for the Local Plan which will be called the Three Rivers Local Development Framework.

As the Local Plan stands there are several policies in place which relate to nature conservation and, therefore, the Local Nature Reserve. The Nature Conservation objectives as outlined in Chapter 2 (Natural Environment and Resources) of the Three Rivers Local Plan are:

a. To minimise the impact of development on wildlife and natural habitats… b. To identify, protect and enhance critical wildlife habitats and rare species. c. To contribute to biodiversity targets in the Hertfordshire Local Biodiversity Action Plan.

19.1.3.1 Policy N.1 of the current Local Plan deals with Nature Conservation

It states how the Council will take into full account the likely effects that any development will have on nature conservation, and that it will be judged against the following: i. The likelihood that there will be significant adverse impacts from the proposed development. ii. The national, regional or local status, importance, and sensitivity of a site or species which may be adversely affected. The possibility that planning permission can be granted subject to conditions or a planning obligation to fully mitigate or compensate for any actual or potential harm. iii. The submission of clear reasons why the proposal cannot be located where no harm would be caused to nature conservation interests.

19.1.3.2 Policy N.2 deals with Sites of Nature Conservation Importance

In (2) it deals with proposals for development likely to have an adverse effect on a Local Nature Reserve, Wildlife Site or Regionally Important Geological Site as shown on the Proposals Map will not be permitted unless the need for the proposal clearly outweighs the nature conservation value of the site. (3) Where such development is permitted, damage should be kept to a minimum. The Council will impose conditions and/or in appropriate cases, expect developers to enter into planning agreements to ensure the implementation of works to mitigate or compensate for any harm caused. (4) The Council will encourage the positive management and enhancement of all sites of nature conservation interest, and may seek to enter into a management agreement with the owner of a site whenever appropriate.

87 (5) The Council will support proposals which will increase the number, size and diversity of nature conservation sites. Wherever possible, new developments should provide for the retention of existing habitats and wildlife features and for the creation of appropriate new habitats.

19.1.3.3 Policy N.3 deals with Protected Species

The policy states that the Council will not permit development which is likely to have a significant adverse effect on any species afforded special protection under UK or European Community law, or identified in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan as in need of particular conservation action.

Policy N.3 goes on to state that where development is permitted which may affect a specially protected species, the Council may impose conditions and may seek to enter into planning obligations to mitigate the effects wherever appropriate.

19.1.3.4 Policy N.20 of the Local Plan relates to Protection of the Chilterns AONB

Within the Chilterns AONB the Council will give priority to conservation and enhancement of the existing landscape. Major development proposals affecting the Chilterns AONB will be regarded as inconsistent with the aims of the designation, except where it is proven that the development is in the national interest and no alternative site outside the AONB is available. To be acceptable, development must also accord with the Green Belt policies of this Plan and be of the highest standard of design and siting, reflecting the landscape, traditional character of buildings in the area and using local materials. Development will only be permitted within the Chilterns AONB where there is no harm to the natural beauty of the landscape, the conservation of which.

19.1.3.5 Policy L.7 of the Local Plan deals with Sport in the Countryside

(1) Proposals for sport in the countryside will only be permitted where they: i. Do not cause disturbance to areas of the countryside which are considered to be quiet, or involve the loss of residential amenity, through traffic or noise generation. ii. Do not adversely affect any site of nature conservation interest. In particular, applications for motor sports or war-game activities will only be permitted on land which is of no nature conservation interest. iii. Provide adequate off-road parking, which does not involve hard surfacing, excessive signage or other structures, or otherwise have a significant visual impact on the area. (2) If appropriate, applicants will be expected to demonstrate that they have considered all locations away from residential areas, on degraded land or in areas of high ambient noise levels as a first course of action. Particularly disturbing activities such as gun and motor sports will be subject to this requirement.

The Local Plan can be viewed at: http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/LocalPlan

The emerging Local Development Framework can be viewed at: http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/LocalDevelopmentFramework

19.1.4 County Biodiversity Action Plan (revised 2006)

In 1998, as Hertfordshire’s response to the national biodiversity planning process, a 50 year vision for the wildlife and natural habitats of the county was prepared on behalf of the Hertfordshire Environmental Forum by the Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. This represented the first Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) for the county and identifies those species and habitats which are a conservation priority and provides valuable information on the county’s natural assets.

The BAP identifies key species and habitats within Hertfordshire that are significant at a nation and/or local level. There are numerous colonies of Coralroot Bittercress, a Biodiversity Action Plan species, located within the Local Nature Reserve. Coralroot Bittercress is associated with ancient, primarily beech, woods which are on drier, basic soils. Chorleywood House Estate Local Nature Reserve is, in fact, the main area within the county in which this nationally rare plant can be found.

19.1.5 Additional Three Rivers District Council Policies

Further policies which are relevant to the Local Nature Reserve are:

Woodland Management Plan http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/WoodlandsManagementPlan

Community Safety Strategy http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=2008%20Three%20Rivers%20 rolling%20strategy%20and%20action%20plan%20(Final%20version).doc

Procurement Strategy http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=Procurement%20strategy%202 .doc

Race and Disability Equality Scheme http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=Race%20and%20Disability%2 0Equality%20Scheme%202006-09.doc

Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults Policy http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=Safeguarding%20Policy.doc

Value for Money Strategy http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=Value%20For%20Money%20S trategy.doc

Green Travel Plan http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/GetResource.aspx?file=Green%20Travel%20Plan%20 Approved%20Feb%202007.doc

19.2 Appendix 2: Building Maintenance Schedule

During 2009 an interim report was produced as part of the ongoing process to create maintenance and repair schedules for various buildings on the Estate. The report has subsequently been revised and updated to reflect the current financial position of the Council. The Council is currently in the process of preparing a costed planned maintenance programme, as part of a comprehensive review of the Council’s land and property assets, for implementation when funds become available. As of 2011 the planned maintenance programme was in a draft condition.

Work which has taken place to the buildings is detailed in the relevant sections below.

More general works include subjecting the trees on or about the site to a formalised management process. Any leaves obstructing airbricks, gutters and downpipes have also been removed.

Various works have been carried out to the internal and external fabric of the Drill Hall, toilet block, Old Chapel, Summer House, Well House and Generator Room during 2005 - 2006. The external decorative order of these buildings is good and, in general, there are no obvious signs of any major works being required to their external fabric.

19.2.1 Drill Hall

The occupier of the Drill Hall has an internal repairing lease under which he is responsible for all of the interior, up to and including floor, wall and ceiling, etc finishes, services, equipment, etc, but excluding the structural timber frame elements.

The building is comprised of: • loadbearing structural timber frame walling, clad externally with horizontal tongued and grooved timber boarding; • suspended timber ground bearing floor and • profiled overlapping metal sheet clad duopitch hipped roof.

The suspended timber ground floor is ventilated by low level grilles and airbricks.

The building has been subject to substructure movement. Much of the western half appears to have either settled/subsided, or, “heave” may have occurred in a small locality in an area below the window. However, there is no evidence of any real structural distress and is, therefore, of little concern and may be associated solely with a cohesive subsoil and tree presence.

The base of the cladding to the western elevation terminates at the base of the timber frame wall sole plate and a gap of up to 25mm is present between the plate and the masonry, although there appears to be some packing present at the southwestern corner. Where accessible to probing, it is evident that a substantial part of the sole plate is rotten.

The southern cladding terminates at a lower level than the western cladding and it was therefore not possible to ascertain the condition of the sole plate in this area or whether there is a gap present.

19.2.2 Toilet Block

The building is comprised of: • 215mm brick walling and a rendered extension of unknown nature and thickness (assumed to be 100mm masonry – brick or concrete block); • ground bearing concrete floor and • plain clay tiled sarking boarded duopitch gabled roof and an extension built-up bitumen felt flat roof, all of which are uninsulated.

The internal water services of this building split recently, resulting in a large water leak. The water supply has been capped off.

The interior of the building, together with the fixtures and fittings, are in a fairly decrepit condition, although general maintenance and cleaning are likely to effect a marked change to the serviceability of the various components and the environment of the space.

Consideration may wish to be given as to whether the use of this building is maintained or whether it should be demolished.

19.2.3 Old Chapel

An internal repairing lease under which the occupier is responsible for all of the interior, up to and including wall ceiling, finishes, services, equipment, etc, but excluding the structural timber frame elements is in place.

The building is comprised of: • loadbearing structural timber frame walling, clad externally with horizontal tongued and grooved timber boarding; • suspended timber ground bearing floor and • plain clay tiled duopitch gabled roof with a bracket supported western feature projection.

The suspended timber ground floor is ventilated by low level airbricks/grilles. It is apparent that some of the external decoration applied to the timber boarded walling has or is in the process of failing.

Fairly mature trees are present in a fairly close proximity to the western and northern sides of the building. However, there is no evidence of any movement of the superstructure. Presuming that the subsoil is of a cohesive nature, tree influenced subsidence (or heave if trees are removed) could occur in the structure at some time in the future.

19.2.4 Summer House

The building is currently occupied by the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate and is comprised of:

91 • loadbearing structural timber frame walling, clad externally with vertical tongued and grooved timber boarding with plain edged boarding laid over to form patterns, and a small panel section of masonry; • suspended timber ground bearing floor; • plain clay tiled duopitch hipped roof with feature dormers and gablets and • fixed polycarbonate screens have been installed across all the windows.

The suspended timber ground floor is ventilated by ground level airbricks/grilles.

The rainwater downpipes currently discharge above drain hopper gratings.

19.2.5 Well House and Generator Room

These building are currently unoccupied.

The Generator Room is comprised of:

• 215mm brick walling; • unknown floor construction and • built-up bitumen felt covered flat roof.

The Well House is comprised of: • a large section four post and lintel bracketed pegged timber frame, supported on stone pedestals; • timber decked masonry and stone wellcap and • plain clay tiled sprocket eaves timber pyramid roof.

The timber wellcap “sounds” to be of a fairly robust construction, without any discernable flexing or movement at the moment.

19.2.6 Pump House

The Pump House, including the lean-to structure, is a Grade II Listed Building. The wellhead gear is a major reason for the Listing. Any works will require the consent of the Conservation Officer. A wildlife survey of the building will also be required to inform the repair strategy and meet Planning requirements. Expert advice and contractors will needs to be sought in order to fully conserve and refurbish the Pump House.

The paddles have been removed from the water wheel and set aside on site. As such the building has been locked and properly secured .

The building is comprised of: • 215-330mm brickwork external walling;

92 • rammed flint cobble floor, 215-330mm brick walled water wheel race, and concrete floor to well area; • slate clad duopitch hipped roof with ventilating cap to apex; • 215mm+ brick wall supported precast reinforced concrete beam cap to race adjacent to northern elevation; • cap to race adjacent to southern elevation and • timber and corrugated steel clad loadbearing timber framed western lean-to outbuilding with a slated ( ⅓) and corrugated steel ( ⅔) roof covering.

It is suspected that a major part of the building is constructed straight off the ground. Consequently, it is likely that some of the base members will be rotting and that the stability of the structure under wind conditions may be deficient - albeit that the building appears to be in a relatively sheltered environment.

Whilst the visible roof timbers of the main lean-to structure generally appeared to be in a reasonable condition, it was evident that some of the timber wall frame members open to inspection are rotting. Substantial work would be required to rectify the decrepit wall and roof claddings, probably requiring much to be replaced with new materials. A provisional rebuilding cost employing a similar basic construction, but addressing durability, structural and other issues, could be in the region of up to £33,000.

The general condition of the masonry walling to the building appears to be fair. The slate roof covering is generally in a fair condition, although a couple of slates have cracked and slipped. The UPVC gutter is damaged in the latter position, and the overall appearance of this area suggests that some physical damage may have occurred.

Regular height horizontal cracking is evident in various bed joints of the northern, eastern and southern elevations. This is an unusual effect in a solid masonry wall – it would be suggestive of iron/steel wall tie corrosion effects causing disruption in a cavity wall construction and requires further investigation.

Two number 16 pane iron framed windows are present in the northern elevation, and one number in the eastern elevation. All of the glazing is broken out, a situation which has existed for a long time, as evidenced in the Listing (03.10.1985).

The “stable” door in the western elevation is in a fair condition.

It is recommended that the vegetation and soil obscuring the construction be removed and that the whole of the structure be subjected to a closer inspection. The southern race cap is obscured by vegetation and it should, also, be subjected to closer inspection.

The flint cobble floor would appear to have been disturbed by animal activity. It should be re-levelled and compacted.

The internal timber wall plate embedded in the western wall appears to be in a reasonably fair condition, but it is recommended that a suitable anti insect and fungal preservative treatment is applied to maintain its long term serviceability.

93 Furthermore, it would also be prudent to apply a suitable anti insect and fungal preservative treatment to all of the timber elements to maintain their long term serviceability.

19.2.7 Lawn Tennis Club

The premises are subject to a full repairing and insuring lease.

1. The boundary perimeter walling varies in height from 2.8-3.95 m, and varies in thickness from 215-450 mm. Attached 110mm buttressing piers are present to some areas of walling.

2. An area of the northern wall adjacent to the main entrance to the premises has been rendered over and painted for use as a practice “hitting wall”.

Some of the tile undercloaked concrete coping to this wall area has deteriorated, with parts breaking off. The copings have also been damaged to allow for the installation of an angle iron and chicken wire ball net installed at the top of the wall.

Some brickwork in the damaged coping area also appears to need attention.

It is recommended that the ball net be removed and the damaged copings replaced in due course (not required immediately – see below). Should the ball net be permitted to be reinstalled, it is recommend that packers be provided, or cranked posts be installed, to ensure that the effectiveness of the copings is not compromised.

3. A few courses of the attached buttress to the northern side of the “hitting wall” are missing. There are some snapped headers present in this area suggesting that these bricks may have been removed deliberately. The “damage” does not adversely impair the structural adequacy of the walling.

4. The boundary walling visible to inspection is, generally, in fair condition for its age. The matters noted below however require attention.

5. Cracking is apparent to the northeastern corner of the eastern wall, midway of the northern wall and the northwestern corner of the northern and western walls, with more minor cracking apparent in other locations. Part of the northern wall appears to be out of plumb, leaning out northwards, notwithstanding the presence of the buttressing walls of the private ownership single storey original construction lean-to building on the northern face of the wall.

The southern end section of the western wall is markedly out of plumb on its eastern face, inferring a westernwards lean out for much of its 2.97-3.43m+ height. A portion of the top 0.68-1.3m+ 215mm brickwork of this wall has been reconstructed to a plumb at some time in the past.

There are various doors in the walls, some of which possess rotting and/or insect ridden timber lintels, which should be replaced in the short term.

It is recommended that the structural stability of all of the walling be assessed by a structural engineer, also taking into consideration the potential for

94 differential thermal and moisture movement, tree presence on TRDC, demised premises and adjoining private land, and removal of the private ownership northern lean-to structure.

6. The original iron gate hinges embedded in the brickwork attached piers to either side of the northeastern main entrance gate opening are corroding, resulting in the expanding rust product disrupting the brick coursing. The hinges should be removed and the mortar bed courses, etc repaired.

7. The lime mortar bedding of the walling is eroding in places generally and the concrete, mortar and engineering brick copings to the tops of the walls generally require attention.

9. Numerous metal and other fixings have been embedded into the walling in various locations. It would be prudent to remove these.

10. The original rendering applied to the northern walling is cracking and detaching in places. In the short term, it is recommended that any loose rendering should be removed to address health and safety issues, and reduce the incidence of freeze-thaw damage to the wall. Repointing in these areas may be required. In the long term, the rendering should be removed.

Those areas of walling supporting moisture-loving plants will require further attention – localised repointing at the least, possibly in conjunction with coping repair/replacement in the immediate vicinity.

All essential repairs have now taken place to the walls.

19.3 Appendix 3: Relevant extract from the TRDC Grounds Maintenance Contract in relation to litter, cleanliness and vandalism at the LNR

F38.2 Cleanliness Standards are:

Grade A No litter, debris or unwanted vegetation. Grade B Predominantly free of litter, debris or unwanted vegetation, apart from small items and accumulations. Grade C Widespread distribution of litter, unwanted debris and vegetation with minor accumulations. Grade D Heavily littered with significant accumulations of litter, unwanted debris and/or vegetation. Grade E Fly Tipping. Dumped material - household, commercial or industrial.

38.3 The standard of cleanliness required is:

All children’s play areas classified as zone 1; all other locations classified as Zone 2. Should any Location fall to Grade B or below then it must be returned to Grade A standard within the timescales in F38.4.

F38.4 Timescales for restoring levels of cleanliness

95 Depending on the grade of “uncleanness” there is a time limit for returning the area to Grade A, as shown in the following chart.

Grade Zone A B C D E (Fly- Tipping) Zone 1 - Inside play areas. 6 hours 3 hours 1 hour 2 hours

If standard falls between 8pm and by 8 am by 8 am by 8 am by 8 am 6am Zone 2 - all other parks. 12 hours 6 hours 3 hours 3 hours

If standard falls between 8pm and by 8 am 6am

The response times for Zones 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7 will be 24 hours, except on Sundays.

38.5 Contractor must remove and dispose of all arisings in accordance with F57.

38.6 The contractor will be expected to carry out litter picks over the weekend in order to comply with this Code of Practice. Not all areas will require weekend litter picks, but areas which currently do so, are The Aquadrome, Oxhey Playing Fields (skate park & Multi-sports area); King George V playing fields (multi-sports area, youth shelter and skate boarding area); Leavesden Country Park, Barton Way Play area; Scotsbridge skate park area and Croxley Green Skate Park, however this list is not inclusive. The cost of carrying this out must be included within the tender submission.

38.7 In addition to the above, the contractor is expected to provide ‘out of hours’ emergency cover to ensure that any area which falls below a Grade B on a weekend, or bank holiday is returned to Grade A within the time period specified in F43.4.

38.8 Where the Contractor, in the course of providing the Service, encounters hazardous materials, the Authorised Officer must be informed immediately. The Contractor shall also inform the Authorised Officer, where possible, of the nature of the hazardous material and also of any assistance it is able to make to deal with it.

38.9 There may be occasions when the Contractor will be required to remove hypodermic needles and other items deemed to be Clinical Waste categorised Group A, B or E waste by the Health and Safety Executive. Collection and disposal methods must comply with all legislation and codes of practice and be agreed by the Authorised Officer before any the Contract commences. No additional payments will be made for this service.

38.10 Graffiti shall be removed in accordance with F47.

F39 ILLEGAL DUMPING - (FLYTIPPING)

39.1 Any flytipping or accumulation of waste material on any areas covered by this Contract, including Local Nature Reserves and Woodland sites,

96 which, in the opinion of the Authorised Officer, is less than 5 cu m in volume shall be removed and disposed of by the Contractor as part of the normal Service and no additional payment shall be made.

39.2 The Contractor must notify the Authorised Officer of the Location and details of any fly tipped materials or accumulation of waste material which is greater than 5 cu m in volume. The Contractor will be required to remove and dispose of these materials. The cost of removals of such accumulations will be on a Dayworks basis.

39.3 The Authorised Officer must be notified, by the next working day, of any flytipping or accumulation of waste material which cannot be removed by hand shall be removed and disposed of by the Contractor without additional mechanical means.

F40 REMOVAL OF LITTER FROM SHRUB AND FLOWER BEDS

40.1 The Contractor must remove all litter from rose, shrub and flower beds.

40.2 The Contractor must take due care when removing litter from shrub and flower beds. Should the Contractor cause damage to any plant in the shrub or flower beds, in the opinion of the Authorised Officer, the Contractor will be required to bear the cost of any rectification and or replacement.

F41 CLEANING OF OFFICIAL NOTICES

41.1 Official Notice Boards are situated at or near the entrance to playing fields. The display face, backs and supporting columns or poles of Official Notice boards must be totally cleaned so as to leave no residual foreign material twice each year.

41.2 Care must be taken not to damage the surface of notices during cleaning. Only clean water and detergent or a cleaning agent previously approved by the Authorised Officer must be used. All arisings must be disposed of in accordance with F57.

41.3 The Authorised Officer must be notified if any board becomes illegible.

41.4 Graffiti must be removed from noticeboards as it occurs.

F42 DEFECTIVE LITTER BINS, ANIMAL EXCREMENT BINS, AND NOTICES

42.1 The Contractor must notify the Authorised Officer of any broken or missing litter bins, animal excrement bins or damaged official notices or any defects to these no later than the next working day. Where the damage is such that it represents a real or potential hazard to the Location users the Contractor must make the Location safe.

F43 LEAF/BLOSSOM/FRUIT FALL

97 43.1 All accumulations of leaf/blossom/fruit fall must be cleared and removed as necessary to maintain the specified standard of cleanliness required under this Contract, regardless of the source of the materials. The Contractor should allow for seasonal leaf or blossom fall in the Operational Details. No additional payments will be made for this work.

43.2 The Annual Sums must include for all costs associated with ensuring that playing fields and internal roads and footpaths are kept free of fallen leaves/ blossom/fruit. This work must be completed within the respective leaf/blossom/fruit fall season.

43.3 In order to prevent a hazard to pedestrians and vehicles due to leaf and blossom fall, the Authorised Officer may instruct the Contractor to remove leaf/blossom/fruit fall from hard surfaces within a specified time period.

F44 LITTER BIN EMPTYING

F44.1 Litter bins must be emptied to ensure no litter bin overflows, or more frequently where the Authorised Officer considers there to be a recurring Public Health Nuisance. All litter, boxes, bags, spillage around bin to be collected and removed at the time of emptying.

F44.2 All arisings must be disposed of in accordance with F57, with plastic bottles, and cans being recycled separately where this is considered reasonable by the Authorised Officer.

F44.3 Contractor must keep all litter bins in a clean condition by washing and disinfecting all litter bins at least once every three months.

F44.4 The Authority may decide to install additional litter bins in any location and if this is done the Contractor will be required to empty and cleanse these bins at a frequency approved by the Authorised Officer and payment will be at the appropriate rate in the Schedules of Rates.

F44.5 Subject to the agreement of the Authorised Officer the Contractor may supply and fix plastic bags to bins as removable liners, but at no extra cost to the Authority.

F45 EMPTYING DOG FAECES BINS

F45.1 The Contractor must empty and dispose of the contents of dog faeces bins and any material left around them and dispose of the waste to a site directed by the Waste Disposal Authority (Hertfordshire County Council). The contractor must also disinfect them to ensure that they are permanently serviceable for their intended use. The Contractor is also required to provide and fit replacement black plastic bag liners after each cleansing operation.

F45.2 The Contractor must empty the bins at least once per week and more frequently if necessary to ensure that no dog faeces bin overflows.

F45.3 Details of the dog faeces bins to be emptied are included in Appendix C.

98 19.4 Appendix 4: Location of bins, waste storage and recycling (including composting) within the Local Nature Reserve

F44.2 All arisings must be disposed of in accordance with F57, with plastic bottles, and cans being recycled separately where this is considered reasonable by the Authorised Officer.

F57 WASTE MANAGEMENT

57.1 It is the Council’s policy and intention to recycle that largest proportion of natural materials as possible.

57.2 The Contractor is therefore required to submit proposals for the methodology and procedures to be adopted for the reuse, removal and disposal of all arisings relating to the Service, to the Contract Administrator for review, prior to Contract implementation, which, if accepted, will thereafter form part of this Specification.

57.3 It is the Council’s intention that on site composting sites will be identified for the composting of green waste arising from operations at these sites only, and that these will be put in place prior to the commencement of the contract at the following sites: i) Rickmansworth Aquadrome ii) Leavesden Country Park iii) Chorleywood House Estate iv) South Oxhey Playing Fields

It should be noted however that these will not be large enough to take arisings from cut and lift operations.

57.4 The contractor is to take all reasonable precautions to prevent excavated soil, rubbish, surplus materials and similar arisings for the Service being dumped on any areas, other than recognised and Contract Administrator approved tipping areas.

The burning of waste on any sites is not permitted under any circumstances.

57.5 Weeds and roots, leaves, cleared trees and bushes, wood chippings, grass cuttings (except where cut and lift operations result in saleable hay crop), prunings and thinnings etc are to be kept free from contaminants and taken to recognised, appropriately licensed and Contract Administrator approved disposal sites for composting. The Contractor is to be responsible for all costs in connection therewith.

57.6 In line with the Council’s intention to recycle the greatest quantity of waste products, the Council may wish certain Green Waste products to be disposed of separately, i.e. yew clippings.

99 57.7 All prices will be deemed to include transport and disposal costs and no additional payments will be made to the Contractor regardless of distance travelled or disposal costs.

57.8 The Contractor will be responsible for obtaining permission, should this be necessary, to tip arisings collected under this Contract.

57.9 The Contractor must be licensed to transport waste at all times during the contract period.

Recycling bins are to be installed at key locations within the Local Nature Reserve. This will compliment the recycling of waste collected during litter picks and will enable the general public to sort their waste as they dispose of it so that it can be recycled rather than sent to landfill.

Litter bins and dog waste bins are located at key locations within the Local Nature Reserve, such as near picnic areas and on popular walks. If waste becomes problematic in any particular location then new bins are installed, where practicable.

19.5 Appendix 5: The Friends of Chorleywood House Estate Constitution and Meeting Minutes

The constitution for the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate sets out the various objectives, powers, finances, insurance and administration for the group and is shown below.

The Name: The name of the group is the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate.

The Location: The location compromises 170 acres of Public Open Space known as Chorleywood House Estate, in the Parish of Chorleywood in Hertfordshire, owned and managed by Three Rivers District Council.

In addition to being an important amenity area the site contains various historical buildings. It is also listed as a key ecological site in TRDC’s Biodiversity Action Plan.

The Objectives: • To restore, enhance and improve the Public Open Space known as Chorleywood House Estate, and to conserve it for future generations. • To create and maintain freely accessible amenity areas within the Estate. • To promote and encourage public awareness of the Estate by means of publicity, consultation, volunteer groups and liaison with interested organisations. • To act as an umbrella group, drawing on the expertise of members to facilitate the restoration process. • To assist, advise and support TRDC in drawing up an Estate Management Plan. • To apply for grants from relevant organisations to help fund the objectives above.

Powers: In furtherance of the objectives, but not otherwise, the Friends shall have the following powers: • To undertake work in the Estate in accordance with the TRDC Management Plan. • To make known the work and aims of the group. • To procure donations, sponsorship and other monies in contributions; such funds to be used in furtherance of the objectives.

100 • To hold assets. • To do all other lawful things as necessary to achieve the objectives of the group.

Administration: • The Friends shall be administered by a Management Committee initially consisting of up to ten members. • The Committee shall allow appropriate officers from TRDC, the CMS and other relevant bodies to participate in the work of the Friends. • The Committee shall have the power to co-opt additional members on a permanent or temporary basis, in respect of specific projects, or of individual ability and contribution. • The Committee shall elect annually each July the following officers from within its own membership: Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. • Interim officers shall be appointed pending the formalisation of the Friends. • The Friends shall support an equal opportunities policy.

Annual Report: An annual report of the work of the Friends shall be made available. Members will be invited to express their views and to make suggestions for future work.

Public Meetings: Public meeting, exhibitions and consultations shall be held as deemed appropriate by the Committee.

Committee Meetings: The Management Committee shall meet at six - eight week intervals, or at such other intervals as determined by the Committee. The quorum shall be one third of the Committee, but shall include either the Chair or Vice-Chair. All such meetings shall be open to the public. Members of the public may make a written submission to a meeting supported by a short verbal introduction, for consideration at a future meeting.

Finances: Any monies received shall be held in an account in the name of the group. Any cheques drawn on that account shall require the signature of the Treasurer and one other officer. The Treasurer shall keep a record of any transactions and present an Annual Report.

Insurance: The Management Committee shall insure all members of the Committee against claims resulting from the work of the Committee and shall require all volunteers to be adequately insured for personal and third party liability.

Alterations to the Constitution: Alterations to the Constitution shall only be made at a special meeting of the Committee and must be supported by a two-thirds majority of those present.

Dissolution: The Friends shall be dissolved following a Committee Meeting at which it is agreed that the objectives of the Friends have been fulfilled to the statisfaction of all concerned.

19.5.1 22 January 2009

Members: (* indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves * Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Kay Fitzgerald TRDC *

101 Barbara Green * Max Green * Jackie Hale * Brenda Harold HMWT Margaret Jarrett Roger Killick * Petrina Llewellyn CMS Monty Leib * Robin Oborn Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

1. Apologies had been received from JB, MJ, PL, RO and KS

2. Minutes of previous meeting. Minutes of 14 Nov. 2008 approved/signed.

3. Report by Kay Fitzgerald TRDC. 3.1 Horses on the Estate. KF had received complaints about horses being ridden on the Estate, in contravention of the byelaws, and asked for comments. JH seen “evidence” and said it was a nuisance when they churned up the footpaths. It was also potentially dangerous with young children around, and with dogs not on a leash. TRDC were in the process of rewriting the byelaws. AGREED that it was not worth the effort / expense of putting up signs, but that we would monitor it. 3.2 The broken manhole cover in the field has been made safe, and the work will be completed soon. 3.3 The bat door has been repaired. 3.4 Insurance: TRDC will give us an annual grant of up to £500 to take out our own insurance, possibly with BTCV. 3.5 User Survey. TRDC had commissioned a survey of users of the Aquadrome and the Estate. Copy on file. 3.6 New planting on corner of Wood Walk . Following a site visit with Darren and Petrina, it had been agreed that a several saplings would be re-planted. Tree guards would be lowered to allow more light in and a 1 metre circle cleared of brambles. Remaining brambles would be left to protect saplings from deer. 3.7 Trees near Dell Pond. It was pointed out that a number of the newly planted trees are not looking at all healthy. 3.8 The new Grounds Maintenance Contract is being agreed and is being put out to tender. It will include the whole Estate, except for the Compound.

4. Report on working parties by Tim Venner. Inclement weather had precluded any working parties. Suggested future tasks included planting out wildflower seedlings on Dell Mound; replacing missing bollards along Lady Ela Drive; clearing the scrub from around the felled holm oak before brambles and nettles encroach;

5. Matters arising from previous minutes not covered earlier. 5.1 Community Orchard . First trees due to planted in February. 5.2 Entrance Gates . John Aves to give KF an estimate for gate cleaning. 5.3. Wildflower seed . JA suggested that this year on Dell Mound we plant the existing seedlings, plus yellow rattle.

6. A.o.b. 6.1 Football Parking. JH reported that on Sunday Jan 18 th there were big problems, particularly during the changeover between sessions, when the second group of players arrive before the first have left. RK said there was difficulty recruiting volunteer stewards. 6.2 Village Day. On a vote of 8 – 2, the Secretary was asked to write to the Parish Clerk, and request that Village Day return to its original location. 6.3 Chairmanship. JA explained she wished to relinquish the chair at the AGM and that EC had agreed to take over. EC expressed the committee’s gratitude for JA’s work and was glad she would remain on the Committee.

102 7. Date of next meeting. Fri. 13 Feb, at 09.30 in the Hollybush Hall (later changed to Fri. 20 th March)

19.5.2 20 March 2009

Members: (* indicates present) Janet Anders * John Aves Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis * Kay Fitzgerald TRDC Barbara Green * Max Green * Jackie Hale * Brenda Harold HMWT * Pat Howell Margaret Jarrett Roger Killick * Petrina Llewellyn CMS * Monty Leib * Robin Oborn * Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

1. Apologies received from JB, KF, PH, MJ and KS. The Chairman welcomed Roger Dennis to the Committee.

2. Minutes of previous meeting. Minutes of 22 nd Jan 2009 agreed/signed.

3. Report on Nature Reserve by Brenda Harold. 3.1 Ann Trotman. BH announced the death of Ann Trotman, the Warden of the Field Study Centre in the 70s and 80s who used to take parties of children to the Dell. Her slides and notes of experiments had been given to the HMWT. 3.2 The violets are worth a visit. Rob and his volunteers have been planting hazel wands round the fallen oak, and near the lower gate. 3.3 Dell Field. Rob has made a corral to help catch the sheep. They will be return in September. CMS contractors have cleared the brash which resulted from cutting the brambles. . If the brambles are cut again in midsummer the sheep will be able to browse the new growth when they return in the autumn. ACTION BH to ask Rob why there is barbed wire on top of the fence around the corral

4. Report by Petrina Llewellyn CMS. 4.1 Contractors cleared scrub and dead wood in Field 4K to aid the cut and lift. 4.2 New planting at corner of Wood Walk . CMS have cut/pulled some of the brambles which were swamping the saplings. 4.3 CMS Action Pack. PL presented the Friends with a Pack. 4.4 Guided Walk . PL will lead a guided walk on Sunday 14 June, 2 – 4.

5. Report by Kay Fitzgerald TRDC (submitted by email) 5.1 Insurance. KF confirmed that TRDC will give us a grant of up to £500 from April to cover the cost of insurance, purchase of tools or courses. 5.2 A replacement picnic bench has been installed near the Generator House. 5.3 A User Survey was completed for the Estate at the end of 2008. It is hoped to repeat the survey in July/August this year. (Results are on file) 5.4 Football Club Tournament, May 17 . The football club have asked for permission to park within the grounds of the Estate during their annual tournament on Sunday 17 May. They originally wanted to use Field 1K which we are managing for the wildflowers under a cut and lift regime. Last year oil was brought in to the area and some of the grass/wildflowers killed off. We also receive funding for the cut and lift areas from Defra and they would probably stop this if we were to allow parking. In order to help the football club, and to reach a compromise about the parking, we have said that they could park in the parkland area (on the left as you drive into the Estate). However, it would be on the condition that the Football Club take full

103 responsibility for any damage caused, pay a damage deposit and tape off any areas of daffodils and the like. As yet the football club have not come back to me. In discussion PL stated that Field 1K was classifield as now having "Wildlife Site Status" because of its botanical diversity and parking should not be permitted. (Field 4K below the Lawn Cemetery is “cut and lift”.) The committee were anxious that the grass in the parkland be not damaged (as it had been by the School Fair), and a suggested compromise was that the lower part of the Amenity grassland be used, together with Field 4K if that were acceptable to TRDC. Chevron parking might be possible in the chestnut avenue (TV offered to steward it). 5.5 The football club are, at the moment, planning to make an appeal against TRDC's refusal of their planning application for extra pitches at Chorleywood House Estate. They have met with Peter Brooker. 5.6 BEHT Guided Walk . The same group that has held a charity guided walk at the Estate for the last couple of years will be returning on Sunday 12 July. 5.7 Entrance gates . KF enquired whether there was any news about cleaning and repainting. ACTION TV remind John Aves.

6. Report on Buildings by Joyce Bishop (submitted by email) 6.1 A capital sum of £72,000 has been passed by the Cabinet of TRDC for 2009/10, for the maintenance of the park buildings and for the work necessary on the listed waterwheel. The maintenance programme appears to be satisfactory. 6.2 A working group of approximately six different departmental officers has been formed, which will meet six monthly in order to ensure the better management of the buildings. Julie Hughes will inform me of further progress.

7. Report on Orchard project by Alison Rubens (submitted by email) 7.1 Following the successful planting day on 28 th February, when over 30 volunteers aged 3 to 77 turned up to plant the first 24 trees, we have had press coverage in the Watford Observer and Optima. Because sponsorship has been so successful (85 trees sponsored so far), we are looking to plant further trees in Jan/Feb 2010. This will be in addition to our order of 36 apple trees (all Hertfordshire varieties). Now have a website – chorleywood-orchard.org.uk 7.2 Next events . Inaugural Annual Meeting on 2 nd June, 8pm, in Chorleywood Library (speaker TBC); information available at the Friends of Chorleywood House Estate stand at Village Day (on Chorleywood Common) on Saturday 11 th June, 12-4; and Apple Day on Saturday 17 th October, 11am to 3pm, in the Summer House. Apple tasting, juice pressing, children’s activities etc. 7.3 Later in the year, we shall be collecting surplus fruit from anyone who has more than they can cope with. This will be turned into apple juice and sold at Apple Day or included in a Fruit Swap.

8. Report on working parties by Tim Venner 8.1 Recent working parties had cleared scrub from around the felled holm oak in the parkland; finished planting the beds in the Sunken garden with Sarcococca and had transplanted snowdrops to the north-facing bank; planted wildflower seedlings on Dell Mound. 8.2 Future tasks include pruning/training the new hedges along the football pitch and Lady Ela Drive, and collecting wild daffodil seeds from Woodwalk later in the spring for possible planting around trees on Dell Mound, or in the orchard.

9. Matters arising from previous minutes not covered earlier. 3.2 Repairs on the broken manhole cover had been completed. 6.2 Village Day. TV and EC had met with the Parish Clerk who had explained why Village Day could not return to its original location. Trees had been

104 trimmed back in the fire ride to assist drying of the ground, and improved signage would hopefully ensure that the Flower Show and Art Centre received support.

10. A.o.b. Website . In response to a plea from EC, BG suggested a member who might assist with its maintenance and updating.

11. Date of next meeting . Thursday 14 th May at 09.30 in the Summerhouse.

19.5.3 14 May 2009

Members: (* indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves * Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis * Kay Fitzgerald TRDC * Barbara Green Max Green * Jackie Hale * Brenda Harold HMWT Pat Howell Margaret Jarrett Roger Killick * Petrina Llewellyn CMS Monty Leib * Robin Oborn Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

1. Apologies had been received from JB, BH and PL.

2. Minutes of previous meeting. Minutes of March 20 th were agreed/signed.

3. Report on Nature Reserve by Brenda Harold (submitted by email) 3.1 Rob Hopkins was arranging a nettle cut. 3.2 Cowslips were thriving, but flower heads were being eaten by rabbits. It was suggested that some of them might be fenced off as a control.

4. Report by Petrina Llewellyn CMS (submitted by email) 4.1 A nettle cut by the Chess had been arranged. 4.2 Ragwort. PL asked volunteers to spray Dell Field with citronella. Volunteers reported it was labour intensive and ineffective. AB said hand pulling without tools had been done for some years on the Common and found effective. KF suggested using “lazy dogs” to pull out the roots after rain was probably easiest and most effective. ACTION. TV to check with PL whether such tools were available. 4.3 Cattle grazing . Prior to a public consultation re grazing on the Estate, members were urged to visit the cattle in Lark Meadow on the Common.

5. Report by Kay Fitzgerald TRDC 5.1 Football 6-a-side. There was to be a six-a-side tournament on 17 May. Parking would be in the field below the Lawn Cemetery and also in the chestnut avenue, where the nettles would be cut, but not in the parkland. (On the actual day, the field proved too slippery, and so cars did park on the parkland area. Damage was minimal, and the grass recovered very quickly.) 5.2 The Green Flag inspectors would visit the Estate on 27 th May. TV was asked to provide display in the Summerhouse where they would meet at 1.15. 5.3 A new kissing gate had been installed at the foot of North Hill. 5.4 Standing order . It was suggested that subscriptions might be paid by standing order. KF would provide a sample form. 5.5 Entrance gates. The volunteers would paint the entrance gates with dark green Hammerite on Tues. 19 th , after a rudimentary wire-brushing. 5.6 Dell Field brambles . These were now thriving having been pruned. KF would enquire whether PL’s contractors would return and grub up the roots.

105 5.7 Nettles in the Compound . These had been cut by the volunteers in previous years and were (for some reason) not covered by the Grounds Maintenance contract. KF would enquire whether they could be cut. 5.8 Brambles in Wood Walk . EC reported that brambles were encroaching in Wood Walk, and that they were now too much to be dealt with by volunteers. KF would ask PL to get contractors in. 5.9 Community Woodland . Darren Monk would arrange thinning. 5.10 CWCYFC Planning Application . There was some discussion of the proposed re-application for extra pitches and it was agreed without dissent that this would affect the biodiversity of that area.

6. Report on working parties by Tim Venner. 6.1 Recent working parties had taken place in the Sunken Garden. There was debate as to whether the yew bushes had been pruned too harshly. If they did not regrow, they would be taken out. All other plants and shrubs were doing well. 6.2 Future tasks - trim and support the wisteria circle and clear the leat.

7. A.o.b. 7.1 Village Day. Share a stall with the Community Orchard. Ours would consist of a photo display; sale of greetings cards and lavender bags. TV, EC, and RD were available all day. RK would be away. ML was available in the afternoon.

8. Date and time of next meeting . 09.30 Thurs. 9 th July in the Summerhouse.

19.5.4 9 July 2009

Members: (* indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves * Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis * Kay Fitzgerald TRDC Barbara Green Max Green * Jackie Hale Brenda Harold HMWT * Pat Howell * Margaret Jarrett Roger Killick Petrina Llewellyn CMS * Monty Leib * Robin Oborn Kathy Stables * Tim Venner *

1. Apologies had been received from JA, KF, BG, JH, RK, RO.

2. Welcome. The Chairman welcomed Phil Ellis, our webmaster, who was congratulated, and thanked for all his work.

3. Minutes of previous meeting. Minutes of 14 May 2009 were agreed/signed.

4. Report on Nature Reserve by Brenda Harold. 4.1 Badgers. There was evidence of new badger activity in the Reserve. 4.2 Nettles. The nettles in the scallops had been cut and would be cut again before our working party on 15 September. 4.3 The sheep are coming to Dell Field in September and then to the Reserve in the Autumn. 4.4 Key Species. HMWT is monitoring key species in Reserves. The Dell has Adder’s Tongue Fern (Brenda confessed she couldn’t find it!) and Field Scabious.

106 4.5 Butterflies. HMWT would like to count butterflies. This should be done weekly, or fortnightly, on a dry day when the temp. is above 18C. Volunteers should walk along one path counting butterflies within one metre.

5. Report by Petrina Llewellyn CMS. 5.1 Green Flag. Inspectors came on 27 th May but no result yet. 5.2 The Guided Walk on 14 th June was attended by 30 people, 12 of whom had never visited the Estate before. 5.3 Nettles by the river had been cut; the next cut would be a cut and lift. 5.4 Ragwort in Dell Field . PL would deliver us some “lazy dogs” to pull the remaining ragwort during the working party on 21 July. 5.5 Dell Field Brambles . Members observed that the contractors who cut the brambles earlier in the year had merely succeeded in pruning them and they were growing more vigorously. PL wanted to see if the sheep would eat the young growth, and if not, would think about asking contractors to grub up the roots in winter. 5.6 River bank . PL would arrange for a contractor to remove the posts from the river bed. JA suggested planting more willow wands. TV urged that the “beach” be not restored as there was too much erosion to make it worthwhile. The picnic area was very popular. 5.7 Wood Walk Brambles . EC asked for the roots to machine removed as they were too entrenched for volunteers. PL said this could be done in winter.

6. Report on working parties by Tim Venner 6.1 Since the last meeting volunteers had cleaned and repainted the entrance gates; weeded and trimmed the Sunken Garden; cleared the leat; trimmed and trained the wisteria circle; cleared the area around the gate looking towards Sarratt and repainted the gate.

7. Village Day. 11 th July. 7.1 As well as our display of photos and news of our activities we would be selling our greetings cards. EC would make, and sell, lavender bags using lavender from the Sunken Garden.

8. Matters arising from previous minutes not covered earlier 8.1 Football Club Public Enquiry (5.10) EC had written to the Chairman of the CWCYFC to say that the Friends could not unequivocally support their application. Members could attend, and speak, in an individual capacity.

9. A.o.b. 9.1 Charity Walk . The Indian Charity BEHT would be holding their annual sponsored walk along the River Chess on Sun. 12 th July and had been given permission to locate their “comfort stop” in the field by the gate looking to Sarratt.

10. Date and time of next meeting . Tues. 22 nd Sept. at 09:30 in Hollybush Hall.

19.5.5 22 September 2009

Members: (* indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves * Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis Kay Fitzgerald TRDC* Barbara Green * Max Green * Jackie Hale * Brenda Harold HMWT Pat Howell Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick * Petrina Llewellyn CMS

107 Monty Leib * Robin Oborn Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

1. Apologies for absence received from AB, JB, RD, BH, PH, PL, RO, KS.

2. Approval of minutes of last meeting. Minutes of 9 th July approved/signed.

3. Nature Reserve report (Dr. Brenda Harold). 3.1 The sheep were happily settled in Dell Field, and were much braver and more friendly than previous ones.

4. Report from TRDC (Kay Fitzgerald) 4.1 Future dates. On October 28 th there would be a photoshoot in the orchard for the pantomime “Snow White”. On March 16 th Northwood College would again be orienteering. 4.2 The cut and lift would take place this week. 4.3 Green Flag flagpole . It was agreed that this 6metre pole should be located by the tennis courts next to the interpretation board. 4.4 The Football Club’s appeal was dismissed by the Planning Inspector. 4.5 Pruning hedges. The volunteers had been pruning the hedges along the football field, and Lady Ela Drive. J.An. asked if the other hedges on the Estate could be maintained. ACTION KF to contact PL. 4.6 Football parking. JH asked whether a notice could be placed in Dell Mound car-park asking that it be kept free for non-footballers. ACTION KF would email possible wording. 4.7 Community Woodland . Thinning the trees is on Darren Monk’s list of “things to do”. Mrs Georgie Clark, from North Hill Farm has offered to cut the paths.

5. Working parties and allied issues (Tim Venner) 5.1 Recent work included removing tree guards on Dell Mound; tending the Sunken Garden; net removal at the river; nettle clearing in the Nature Reserve.

6. Any other business. 6.1 Badgers. J.An. observed badger activity - right of the Scout Camp. 6.2 Summerhouse - used by two local artists and for Yoga on the grass. 6.3 Community Orchard is to be presented with a grant from Waitrose. 6.4 Deeds . J.An. presented EC with a copy of the original deed to the Estate, and a copy of the 1936 map.

7. Date of next meeting: Thurs. 12 th November 2009 in the Hollybush Hall

19.5.6 14 April 2010

Members: (* indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis * Phil Ellis Kay Fitzgerald TRDC Barbara Green Max Green * Jackie Hale * Margaret Jarrett Roger Killick Monty Leib * Petrina Llewellyn CMS * Robin Oborn * Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

108 1. Apologies for absence had been received from JB, BG, KF and RK. (Dr. Brenda Harold had resigned from the Committee since HMWT no longer lease the Nature Reserve. The Committee thanked her for her advice and support.)

2. Approval of minutes of last meeting. Minutes of 11 Feb. were approved and signed.

3. Report from CMS (Petrina Llewellyn) 3.1. CMS were “Investors in Volunteers”. This underlines CMS commitment to supporting volunteers, and also states what volunteers can expect from CMS (eg. Training in First Aid, and Risk Assessment). PL distributed risk assessment sheets for various activities. 3.2 Programme of work. PL presented a draft list of tasks for volunteers. This was discussed. PL asked that we strim the grass round the trees in the orchard field, prior to it being mown. CMS need to clear the brambles in the hedge between 3K and 4K. 3.3 Wood Walk . There is urgent need for TRDC/CMS to clear encroaching brambles and holly, which are smothering the wild daffodils and wood anemones. 3.4 Grazing. PL has met with potential graziers for the field by North Hill to discuss stock requirements. KF and PL to hold public information event. The Committee were in favour of “hiring” the sheep again; PL to enquire about the possibility and cost. RO to give PL the name of a local farmer who might be interested.

4. Buildings report (Joyce Bishop – submitted by phone). 4.1 New bridge. The Committee expressed unanimous disappointment that a large amount of money which could have gone to repairing the Waterwheel House had been wasted repairing a footbridge that was never used. It now allowed public access to land which we understood was leased by Claire Barlow. ( ACTION JA to enquire). CB reported that once the nettles had grown, the bridge would be hidden from view. 4.2 Waterwheel House . TV distributed a letter from Peter Brooker, inviting the “Friends” to take over the building, just as we had the Summerhouse, and the Generator House. The Committee AGREED that the building was the responsibility of TRDC, and that the Council should repair it, as it had the other Estate buildings. ACTION The Secretary was instructed to reply to Mr Brooker declining his kind offer. The building was currently padlocked, and TRDC had refused to allow the Barlows, or the Committee a key to obtain access in case of emergency, or the grease the machinery. It was also highly unlikely that the Environment Agency would ever give permission for the leat to be cleared, owing to the presence of watervoles.

5. Report from TRDC (Kay Fitzgerald – submitted by email). 5.1 The Green Flag was now flying from its flagpole by the tennis courts, and the inspectors would be visiting later in April or May. 5.2 The Football Club would be holding their 2010 tournament on Sunday 23 May, but with fewer teams, and staggered starts in the hope that this would ease congestion. Overflow parking would be permitted on the parkland, but not on the rest of the Estate. 5.3 Community Woodland . Thinning and ride-widening would commence on 12 th April and last 4 weeks. 5.4 Halo thinning. Tree surgeons have carried out some work around the Generator House (but there are still a number of trees marked up by TV and EC to be taken out).

109 5.5 Dog bins have been installed by the House, and down by the Chess. 5.6 Leaflets . The newly printed leaflets would be arriving “soon”, after a long delay. 5.7 Squeeze gap in Field 2K had not yet been installed, but was still on the “to do” list.

6. Aob. 6.1 Widening entrance gates. There had been a suggestion from the Football Club that congestion could be eased by widening the entrance. This idea was rejected by the Committee, and it was suggested that “priority” and “give way” arrows might be used instead.

7. Date of next meeting was fixed for Wed. 30 th June in the Summerhouse

19.5.7 30 June 2010

Members: (* indicates present) Janet Anders * John Aves Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis * Phil Ellis Kay Fitzgerald TRDC * Barbara Green Max Green * Jackie Hale * Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick Monty Leib * Petrina Llewellyn CMS Robin Oborn Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

1. Apologies for absence had been received from J.Aves, AB, PE, BG, RK, PL and RO.

2. Approval of minutes of last meeting. Minutes of 14 April were approved and signed.

3. Report from CMS (Petrina Llewellyn – submitted by email) 3.1 Sheep grazing. It was anticipated that the sheep would be in Dell Field, and the Nature Reserve for 6 weeks from the end of July. TRDC would cut the nettles in the reserve, and the volunteers would rake them, and remove any ragwort. 3.2 Cattle grazing. CMS had been in touch with Veolia regarding the supply of water to Field J. This would be funded by DEFRA. JH expressed concern over public safety, and reminded the Committee about the occasion when a cow had calved on the Common. PL said there would be a public information meeting on Sunday 15 August on the Estate. Grazing by cattle for four months between April and September was the most environmentally friendly way of managing grassland. 3.3 Removal of gate into Field J . The gate had been removed by CMS without consultation in preparation for cattle grazing. There was now easy access for vehicles via the chestnut avenue. 3.4 Butterfly walk. PL had led a successful butterfly walk on the Estate on 27 th June, and presented a list of the species observed. 3.5 Children’s activity. There would be a bird-box and insect-hotel making day on 27 July organised by TRDC.

4. Report from TRDC (Kay Fitzgerald) 4.1 Green Flag award. We had not yet been informed of the Inspectors’ report. 4.2 CWCYFC event. The tournament on 23 rd May had been successful, and there had been no problems with parking. 4.3 The squeeze gap in Field K had been installed.

110 4.4 “Yoga on the Grass” would again take place on August Sundays. 4.5 History of the Estate . KF asked whether someone could write a history of the Estate. The Committee volunteered MJ; EC offered to assist her, and has recordings of reminiscences. 4.6 Clearing holly and brambles in Wood Walk. This had been promised by CMS contractors. KF would enquire of PL regarding progress. 4.7 Hedge maintenance . EC highlighted the lack of maintenance in the newly-laid hedges.

5. Aob. 5.1 Restoration of fire-pond. ML reported that the residents’ gardener had shown an interest in re-sealing the pond, if TRDC provided the materials. 5.2 Crayfish. MG showed photos of American crayfish from the Chess. 5.3 Village Day, July 10. TV asked for (and received) volunteers to help.

6. Date of next meeting. Friday 24 th September 2010 in the Hollybush Hall.

19.5.8 24 September 2010

Members:(* indicates present) Janet Anders * John Aves* Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis * Phil Ellis * Kay Fitzgerald TRDC Barbara Green Max Green * Jackie Hale * Margaret Jarrett Roger Killick Monty Leib Petrina Llewellyn CMS* Robin Oborn * Kathy Stables * Tim Venner *

1. Apologies for absence had been received from JB, KF, BG, MJ, RK, ML

2. Minutes of last meeting. Minutes of June 30 th were approved and signed.

3. Report from CMS (Petrina Llewellyn) 3.1. Sheep grazing. The sheep had been removed after 3 weeks. One sheep had been savaged by a dog and put down. TRDC dog-warden had visited local households. The stock-fencing around Dell Field had also been deliberately cut. PL and KF were investigating other graziers for 2011 and thanked EC, KS and the other shepherds. EC suggested all the sheep should go in the same field, instead of being separated. In discussion, it was pointed out that any dogs running loose might have owners in a neighbouring field who had not seen the notices. 3.2 Cattle grazing . 40 responses had been received so far to the “Friends” questionnaire. The majority were in favour of grazing, and option one for the fencing. The display was going to the Library; information was available on TRDC website, and the TRDC Newsletter. There is a capped agricultural water supply near the Scout Camp, and a metered supply to the Scout Hut. The grazier who grazes Croxley Common Moor might be interested. It was pointed out that if the cattle came in the summer, and ate the wildflowers before they had seeded, this would counteract any benefit to biodiversity. 3.3 Barbed wire . The Committee was unanimously opposed to the use of barbed wire in an area used by walkers, children and dogs. PL suggested that barbed wire would go on the cattle side, and plain wire on the public side. It was pointed out that in fencing option one, the cattle, and public were both inside the fence. There would be stock netting at the lower level. 3.4 Further grazing. PL was looking at the grazing potential of the small field next to Dell Cottage (where Shetland ponies have been in the past).

111 3.5 Activity Day. On 27 th July CMS held a bird-box making day and scavenger hunt. 3.6 Working parties. On 28 th July and 15 th Sept. there were working parties on the hedge by the River Chess, and the hedge between 3K and the orchard field. EC pointed out that there was still brash which had not been removed from previous working parties. On 20 th October it was planned to clear brambles, and remove tree guards in the Community Woodland. 3.7 First Aid Training . J.Anders reported on a very useful day with the St John’s Ambulance Brigade, but it had not been specifically aimed at outdoor volunteers. EC, RK and TV asked to be booked on the course on 18 th October. 3.8 Leadership Training. Members felt they were sufficiently experienced not to require training. PL to check whether accreditation was a legal requirement. 3.9 Risk Assessment. JA supplied an “all-purpose” form which she used for Philipshill Wood. PL reminded the group that the leader should complete a form, and give a short safety talk each time. 3.10 Suggested future volunteer tasks. 3.10.1 Willow wands needed to be pollarded, and new wands planted along the River Chess. ACTION EC to check how many and where. 3.10.2 Remove hedge guards along North Hill, and trim hedge. 3.10.3 Remove non-native species from Wood Walk. The Committee was OPPOSED to the removal of rhododendrons. Although they are non-native, they were planted deliberately, and are an historic feature of the Estate. The committee repeated its request that the holly and bramble be cleared from Wood Walk. ACTION PL to consult with KF about removal of holly and bramble.

4. Report from TRDC (Kay Fitzgerald – submitted by email) 4.1 Green Flag Award . The Estate has been re-awarded its Green Flag Award. KF thanked TV and EC who met the judges on the day as well as everyone who works so hard during the rest of the year. 4.2 The cut and lift of the Estate started on 1 September. 4.3 Yoga on the Grass took place, once again, on each Sunday throughout August. These free sessions (any donations to charity) were very successful and the organisers are hoping to return next summer. 4.4 Restoration of the formal pond in front of Chorleywood House. TRDC Insurance Officer is of the opinion that if it were to be restored then it would be a good idea to place netting across the water. 4.5 Green Waste sites. Daniel Monk is leading a project to install 'Green Waste' sites at a number of locations throughout the district. One of these sites is Chorleywood House Estate. The green waste site would be for any material arising from works, eg tree works and weeding (but not the cut and lift!). This project would be a matter of formalising the area which is currently used for green waste - the corral near the football pitches. The project is in its very early days at the moment and there are no drawings etc, as yet. I have invited Daniel to come along to a Friends meeting once the project progresses. As far as I am aware the project will probably require planning permission so the Friends will have the opportunity to formally comment on the scheme. 4.6 Boreholes. Veolia Water has contacted TRDC as they are interested in boreholes on the Estate. They are particularly interested in looking at boreholes in/near the Generator House and the Water Wheel House. I will let you have further information (if there is any) as and when. 4.7 Play area . There are currently NO proposals for a children’s play area on the Estate.

5. Buildings report (Joyce Bishop – submitted by email.)

112 5.1 Progress. There has been little progress on the Chorleywood House Estate buildings. As the Committee is aware, the large sum of money promised by Peter Brooker in 2007 was rolled over, and then spent on what the Council considered were more important projects. These were (i) repairs to the wall of the Walled Garden; (ii) repairs to North Lodge; (iii) a new bridge over part of the Chess; and (iv) a padlock for the Waterwheel House. 5.2 Remaining funds. These works having been completed, there remains £14K available to be spent on buildings. I am pleased to say that this will not be going on the Drill Hall, but on urgent work on the Chapel. This includes painting the building and repairing any rotten wood. I have asked that money also be spent on repairs to the gutters and drainpipes so as to prevent future damage to the woodwork. I have been informed by TRDC that this is the extent of any money for buildings for the foreseeable future, due to the severity of the cuts in TRDC’s budget. 5.3 Waterwheel House . PB asked me to try and obtain a grant from SPAB, which I did, but this is now sadly in abeyance. I will contact SPAB to see if there is anything I can do about it, as it is a rare survival, and is a 2 star listed building. Perhaps we can shame TRDC by putting it on the “Buildings at Risk” register. Now that the Barlows are no longer permitted access to the building, there is no-one keeping an eye on it.

6. River Chess 6.1 Restoring chalk streams. JA reported on a recent course she had attended on the River Kennett, and was concerned that our section does not have rich vegetation, and lacks ranunculus. A chalk stream should be fast flowing over a gravel bed. Attached is JA’s very thorough report with suggestions as to how to restore the river. ACTION JA and EC to invite KF to walk our section, and discuss a possible action plan.

7 Working parties and allied issues (Tim Venner) 7.1 Recent working parties had concentrated on the Sunken garden. Future work would include clearing the leat, and widening the path down Dell Mound. Work would then start on raising crowns of the saplings in the Community Woodland.

8 Aob. 8.1 Orchard. Apple Day will be Oct 2 nd ; more trees will be planted on Nov. 6th and Dec 4 th . 8.2 Artists are exhibiting in the Summerhouse each weekend this month. 8.3 The Football parking signs have disappeared. EC will replace.

9. Date of next meeting Thursday 11 th November, 09.30am, Hollybush Hall.

19.5.9 11 November 2010

Members: (* indicates present) Janet Anders John Aves Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis Phil Ellis Kay Fitzgerald TRDC * Barbara Green Max Green * Jackie Hale * Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick Monty Leib * Petrina Llewellyn CMS Robin Oborn * Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

1. Apologies for absence received from J.An, JB, RD, PE, BG, RK, PL, KS

113 2. Minutes of last meeting. Minutes of 24 Sept. 2010 were approved and signed.

3. Report from CMS (Petrina Llewellyn) 3.1. Tools course. Members were invited to attend a course on tools maintenance and use in 2011.

4. Report from TRDC (Kay Fitzgerald) 4.1 Grazing consultation. Approximately 75% of the responses received by CMS and the Friends were in favour of the scheme to graze cattle. The majority also favoured option 1 for the fencing (hidden in the field perimeter). TRDC have a particular grazier in mind who currently grazes Croxley Common Moor, and will be grazing the Common probably with Belgian Blue/ Piedmontese. There is currently no funding for the fencing. 4.2 Illegal hedge cutting. A section of the Estate hedge had been removed by a resident of The Readings. KF regretted that apart from writing a “stroppy” letter, there was little that the Council could do. 4.3 Other Estate hedges . Volunteers were invited to trim the hedges along Lady Ela Drive and by the football pitches. ACTION KF to chase the hedge planting around the phone mast. 4.4 Green Waste Site . KF confirmed the corral would not be a location. 4.5 First Aid Certificates were presented to EC, RK and TV. (JA having received hers) 4.6 Local Development Framework consultation. KF alerted members to the forthcoming consultation on site allocation. 4.7 Wood Walk. ACTION KF to chase CMS again regarding removal of encroaching brambles and holly. There was discussion regarding the presence of rhododendrons, which, although not a native species, were nevertheless an integral part of the historic Estate. TRDC has a programme to remove them from local woodlands, but would not be coming to the Estate. 4.8 Dog Bin . EC pointed out there was a lot of dog dirt by the squeeze gap below the lawn cemetery. ACTION KF to ask if we could have a bin there.

5. Buildings report (Joyce Bishop – submitted by phone ) 5.1 The Chapel . JB was pleased to report that urgent work was being done on the Chapel. Woodwork was being repainted, and the guttering had been taken down and repaired. 5.2 Maintenance . TV asked that basic maintenance of the buildings (clearing leaves from gutters etc) be carried out by TRDC. The “Friends” had been told by CMS that they could no longer use ladders. ACTION TV to contact Nick Dimbleby. (Since the Committee meeting, ND offered to meet KF and TV on site to discuss maintenance).

6. Working parties and allied issues (Tim Venner). 6.1 The faithful regulars had finished in the Sunken Garden for the autumn and would be working in the Community Woodland during the winter, raising the crowns of the saplings. KF agreed to the burning of the arisings, admitting that it was unlikely that TRDC contractors would have the time to remove, or chip them. 6.2 Yew bushes in the Sunken garden. It was agreed that since these had not regenerated, they should be cut to ground level.

7. A.o.b.

114 7.1 The Fire Pond. Although ML’s gardener has expressed a willingness to restore the pond f.o.c. it was unlikely that TRDC had the funds at present to pay for materials. 7.2 Football parking . JH reported that there had been severe congestion the previous weekend. Apart from writing to the Club, KF felt there was little that could be done, unless the Club provided marshals and parents were prepared to use the Cricket Club, and park further away. 7.3 Commemorative tree. Sue Kipps, our local Guide leader, had asked for permission to plant a tree in the grounds to commemorate 100 years of guiding. It was suggested that a rowan tree might be decorative and appropriate, and that it might go in the lower parkland, near the other commemorative trees. ACTION TV and ML to mark location.

8. Date of next meeting fixed for Thursday 27 th January in the Hollybush Hall.

19.5.10 22 July 2011

Members: (* indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis* Phil Ellis * Kay Fitzgerald TRDC * Max Green * Jackie Hale Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick * Monty Leib * Petrina Llewellyn CMS Robin Oborn Kathy Stables * Tim Venner *

1. Apologies for absence had been received from JH, PL, RO and JB

2. The minutes of 13 May 2011 were approved and signed.

3. Report from TRDC 3.1 New chestnut trees had been ordered for the chestnut avenue. 3.2 Tree survey . Daniel Monk is surveying the Estate trees to see which need work. 3.3 A removable bollard had been installed near Dell Cottage. 3.4 Resurfacing of Lady Ela Drive would take place shortly. 3.5 Mowing . AB asked if mowers could go closer to the rhododendrons, and the fallen holm oak to enable children to play there. 3.6. Wood Walk . PL had obtained a quote for removal of laurel, sycamore and scrub holly. JA asked if the brambles could be taken out while the land-rake was in action, and if we could meet the contractors on-site when they start. 3.7 The Green Flag had been re-awarded - a detailed report would follow. KF would give the old flag to the Friends for the flagpole near the Sunken Garden. 3.8 Ragwort . KS reported reported it was bad in Dell Field and asked if it could be tackled as a matter of urgency. KF would ask PL to get CMS volunteers. 3.9 Sheep grazing. JA expressed concern that if the sheep come at the end of July they will eat the wildflowers before they have seeded. PL had checked with Martin Hicks that the date was acceptable.

4. Buildings report. 4.1 Toilet block. AB reported that he and JB had checked the building. It was currently in a poor state of repair, and unusable since the water had been cut off.

5. Working parties and allied issues.

115 5.1 Ornamental pond. Volunteers had finished restoring the pond, and the goldfish from the Common were now in their new home. There was to be a party on 9 th August to thank those who had helped. 5.2 Other tasks. Work had continued in the Sunken Garden. It was suggested that we might tackle the pond by the ice-house. Future tasks would include thinning the saplings on Dell Mound, planting the wildflower seeds, and clearing the leat, and the leat path.

6. Aob. 6.1 Village Day. We had sold £84 worth of cards, and acquired 4 new volunteers, and 2 new members. 6.2 Yoga on the Grass would take place each Sunday in August.

7. Date of next meeting. Friday 23 September. Venue t.b.c.

19.5.11 27 January 2011

Members: (* indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves * Joyce Bishop Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis Phil Ellis * Kay Fitzgerald TRDC Barbara Green Max Green * Jackie Hale * Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick Monty Leib * Petrina Llewellyn CMS Robin Oborn Kathy Stables * Tim Venner *

1. Apologies for absence received from JB, RD, KF, BG, RK, PL and RO.

2. The minutes of 11 November 2010 were approved and signed.

3. Report from TRDC (Kay Fitzgerald submitted by email) 3.1 Rhododendron clearance . KF assured the Committee that nothing was to be done in the near future. J.An suggested we mark the rhododendrons when they are flowering so TRDC knew which ones not to cut down. It would be helpful to identify and label species. The Committee reiterated the rhododendons were an historic feature of a planted estate and not woodland invaders. 3.2 Dog bin by Lady Ela Drive squeeze-gap. Despite the abundance of dog mess TRDC were understandably unwilling to locate another bin so close to an existing one. The problem was particularly bad near the Orchard so the orchard committee were going to display notices exhorting dog owners to be responsible. 3.3 Pink Chestnut Avenue . There were a number of dead/dying trees that need removing. The Committee agreed with KF that they should not be replaced with limes but a mix of sweet chestnut and flowering cherry. ACTION TV email KF. 3.4 Local Development Plan submission . MJ pointed out that the Lawn Cemetery and its extension were owned by the Parish Council. When the Estate was sold in the 1930s it was on the understanding that it should all be public open space. There was discussion as to what exactly was allowed, or forbidden with an “Open Space” designation. (Subsequent to the meeting the Secretary invited the relevant TRDC officer to attend a future meeting to clarify the term.) 3.5 Parkland use by CCYFC . On Saturday mornings training sessions were held on large areas of the parkland up to the Summerhouse. The legitimacy of this was queried since the Club was a commercial organisation (in that it levied a subscription). Other commercial groups had not received permission to use the area. There was a noise nuisance for residents of the House. ACTION TV email KF.

116 3.6 Parking in Log Field . The Club was inviting drivers of 4 x 4 vehicles to park in log field inside the metal gate. ACTION TV email KF. 3.7 Hedge plants. KF had ordered hedge plants for the volunteers to plant around the mobile phone mast. It was agreed that any left over should be planted along The Readings where the resident had cut down the hedge.

4. Working parties and allied issues (Tim Venner) 4.1 After a break in December, volunteers were returning to raise crowns in the Community Woodland. Contractors were currently thinning the area. It was suggested that volunteers might spread the chippings over the muddier paths. 4.2 Stock proof fencing in Field J. J.Av. asked if it might be possible for the volunteers to reinforce the existing iron fencing with angle iron to make it stock proof. ACTION TV email KF for update on grazing.

5. Aob. 5.1 Offer of a donation . The secretary reported that Fay Caplin had very kindly offered a donation to the Friends. It was agreed that something tangible and permanent would be appropriate, possibly that might bear a commemorative plaque. AGREED, that subject to cost, restoration of the ornamental fire pond by the House would be good. ML had spoken to the gardener who worked for the residents and had asked him to get quotes for the cost of materials and any extra labour. 5.2 Commemorative benches . ML would inform the Parish Council that if there were no room on the Common, the Friends would be agreeable to benches being located on the Estate. 5.3 Dell Mound car park . KS asked that the parking area be resurfaced. Lady Ela Drive was repaired regularly, but the car park was in a particularly poor condition. ACTION TV email KF. 5.4 Valerie Hale. TV reported that Mrs Hale had sent in an application for membership of the Friends. It was believed that her father might have been Head Gardener. ACTION TV to offer her a guided tour of the Estate in the Spring.

6. Date of next meeting and AGM. Friday 11 th March 2011

19.5.12 13 May 2011

Members: (* indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves Joyce Bishop * Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis Phil Ellis * Kay Fitzgerald TRDC Max Green * Jackie Hale Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick * Monty Leib * Petrina Llewellyn CMS * Robin Oborn * Kathy Stables * Tim Venner *

1. Apologies for absence had been received from RD, KF, JH

2. The minutes of 11 th March 2011 were approved and signed.

3. Report from TRDC (submitted by email) 3.1 Pink Chestnut Avenue . Tree officer advised the pink Indian Chestnut (Aesculus indica) was disease resistant and wished to proceed. AGREED. 3.2 Tree work. TRDC tree surgeons had trimmed cypresses round the sunken garden; ground out the 4 yew stumps, and removed lower dead limbs of cedar tree by generator house.

117 3.3 A litter bin will be installed near the dog bin by the River Chess. 3.4 Green Flag judges will visit on 17 th May. TV asked to set up display. 3.5 Future events . CCYFC tournament 22 nd May using staggered starts. BEHT Charity Walk 3 rd July. Yoga on the Grass on four Sundays from 31st July. 3.6 The Readings encroachment . Passed to the legal department. 3.7 Bollard installation by Dell Cottage. KS reported vehicles accessing the Chess Valley via her access track. ACTION TV to ask KF to install bollard.

4. Report from CMS 4.1 Holly and bramble control in Wood Walk. PL awaiting contractor quote for winter work. May use CMS volunteers to assist. AB concerned rhododendron should not be touched. 4.2 Grazing. PL in discussion with potential sheep graziers for Dell Field, and Nature Reserve. KS reported severe encroachment by nettles and brambles. 4.3 Alpaca . PE suggested mixing alpaca with sheep. KS might graze some.

5. Buildings report (Joyce Bishop) 5.1 Chapel . Urgent: exterior flaky paint, leaky gutters; loose downpipes. 5.2 Toilet block. AB queried if functioning. AB/JB to check and tell KF. 5.3 Waterwheel House . Corrugated iron is dangerous - should be removed. Richard Oxley (expert on timber-framed buildings) has inspected for TRDC. It should be made childproof. 5.4 Presentation to Joyce . This would be Joyce’s last committee meeting since she was leaving the area. The Chairman made a presentation and thanked her warmly for all her work on the Estate buildings. Joyce’s determination and persistence were an example to us all.

6. Working parties and allied issues (Tim Venner) 6.1 Latest tasks: clear leat, trim football pitch hedge, tend sunken garden.

7. Aob. 7.1 Village Day would take place on Saturday 9 th July. 7.2 Fire Pond . The contractors hoped to start work in late June. 7.3 Helena McGrath held an art exhibition in the Summerhouse May 7–9.

8. Date of next meeting. Friday 22 nd July

19.5.13 23 September 2011

Members: (* indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves Anthony Boswell Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis Phil Ellis Kay Fitzgerald TRDC * Max Green * Jackie Hale Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick * Monty Leib Petrina Llewellyn CMS Robin Oborn Kathy Stables * Tim Venner *

1. Apologies had been received from AB, RD, PE, JH, PL and RO

2. Minutes of 22 nd July were approved and signed.

118 3. Dog attacks. KS reported her three alpacas were recently attacked and severely injured by a lurcher/retriever cross, whose owner was known to her. The police were unhelpful, and not interested. The owner told the police he will muzzle the dog. The same dog is believed to have attacked muntjac on the Common, and KS suggested the owner (who has health problems) was unfit to keep dogs. She is asking the advice of the RSPCA. KF said that TRDC Councillors were unwilling to impose a control order on the Estate. ACTION TV to write to Cllr. Trevett. JA suggested that there be permanent notices warning that “Livestock may be grazing”.

4. Report from TRDC 4.1 Cut and Lift was in progress, and subject to fine weather should be completed within a week. 4.2 Wood Walk. A revised quote had been accepted from Tom Williams (this year’s grazier) for removing small holly, laurel and sycamore. PL would arrange the timing. JA asked that we be informed so we could meet the contractor before work started. 4.3 Lady Ela Drive had been resurfaced. 4.4 A user survey had been undertaken. 4.5 The dead oak in Wood Walk had (allegedly) been removed. 4.6 Ragwort in Dell Field and the Nature Reserve had been pulled. 4.7 ITV was filming an episode of “Lewis” near The Fisheries. 4.8 Compound toilet block . Nick Dimbleby promised to get it working. 4.9 Future grazing on the Estate might involve cattle, rather than sheep.

5. Buildings report 5.1 Corrugated iron roof on Waterwheel House. JB had asked KF to remove. JB would pass all her papers regarding the building to Nick Dimbleby. 5.2 Maintenance of Compound Buildings . JB was concerned the French drains were becoming blocked with debris; likewise the gutters; and that it appeared to be no-one’s responsibility to cut back the vegetation. ACTION TV to offer to do the work with the volunteer working parties. (Subsequent to the meeting, KF was told by Michele Henington in the Surveyors’ department that she would pay TRDC contractors to do the work TV will monitor progress…..)

6. Working parties and allied issues (Tim Venner) 6.1 The Fire Pond. Work had finished and a celebratory party held to thank all involved. Water level was stable and the fish and waterlilies were thriving. 6.2 Pond by Ice House . Saplings had been felled to allow more light in and two beds had been created along the sides to be planted with ragged robin, purple loose-strife etc. 6.3 Dell Mound. Saplings had been thinned and an area sown with wildflower mix. Two other smaller areas had been cleared prior to sowing with cornfield mix in the spring. ACTION JA to buy some yellow rattle seed. 6.4 Sunken Garden maintenance continued.

7. Aob. 7.1 River Chess. Melanie Challis had yet to send her report to JA but wanted to encourage its use as a leisure resource.

8. Date of next meeting. Friday 18 th November 2011 in the Hollybush Hall.

19.5.14 18 November 2011

Members: (* indicates present)

119 Janet Anders * John Aves * Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis Phil Ellis * Kay Fitzgerald TRDC Max Green * Jackie Hale * Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick * Monty Leib * Petrina Llewellyn CMS Robin Oborn Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

1. Apologies for absence had been received from RD, KF, PL, RO, and KS.

2. The minutes of 23 rd Sept. 2011 were approved and signed.

3. Buildings report (submitted by JB by telephone) 3.1. Compound buildings . Nothing had been done by TRDC to clear drains/gutters. AB asked whether the builder had a repairing lease for the Drill Hall. If so, he wasn’t fulfilling his obligations. ACTION TV to ask KF for a key to the compound padlock so that the volunteers could get in and clear vegetation. 3.2 Waterwheel House. The corrugated iron on the additional building was in a dangerous condition and should be removed.

4. Working parties and allied issues (Tim Venner) 4.1 Recent working on continuing maintenance of the Sunken Garden included digging over and replanting the two large beds beside the steps. The area by the felled holm oak below the Sunken Garden would be cleared of brambles and scrub to allow the grass to re-grow in the hope that contractors would mow that area. 4.2 JA had sown yellow flag and greater spearwort round the ice-house pond. Future working parties could clear encroaching nettles there.

5. Aob. 5.1 Childrens’ Play Facilities. TV attended a meeting in the Parish Office. Notes on file. 5.2 River Chess. JA attended a meeting with Melanie Challis - the Environment Agency’s Biodiversity Officer for the Colne and Gade catchments. Notes on file. MC saw the main value of our river section as a leisure resource. She suggested that 20mm – 40mm gravel be spread over a wider area at the point where children and other users access the river. ACTION TV to approach KF. 5.3 Dog Control Orders. EC to attend a meeting at Three Rivers House on 23 Nov. and would report back. The “Clean Neighbourhood Act” is effective for the Common, the Aquadrome, and CWHE, but enforcement and monitoring are a problem. The PCSO’s can enforce under the latest legislation, and issue fines. 5.4 Wood Walk . JA reported on recent work by CMS contractors in Wood Walk where they appeared to have done the opposite of what was asked for. Holly scrub and brambles had been left untouched; mature hollies and one of the finest rhododendrons had been taken out; hazel had been cut off at head-height. ACTION TV to ascertain what instructions had actually been given to the contractors, and whether their work had been monitored. (Subsequent to the meeting TV met with KF on site to inspect the damage, and as a result of a letter of complaint to CMS later met with Lee Tyson, CMS Operations Manager, to discuss what might be done).

6. Date of next meeting. Friday 3 Feb. 2012 in the Hollybush Hall.

19.5.15 3 February 2012

Members: (* indicates present)

120 Janet Anders * John Aves Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis * Phil Ellis Kay Fitzgerald TRDC * Max Green * Jackie Hale Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick * Monty Leib * Petrina Llewellyn CMS Robin Oborn Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

1. Apologies for absence had been received from PE, JH, RO and KS

2. The minutes of 18 November 2011 were approved and signed.

3. Report from TRDC (Kay Fitzgerald) 3.1 Dog Control orders. TRDC is looking to impose a dog-control order on the Estate. Walkers would be limited to four dogs and would be fined if they did not clear up after them, as would individual walkers. KF is putting together a report for Cllrs. for the spring. Enforcement would be by PCSOs. It would be helpful if members could report the times that regular dog walkers appear. Dog litter (as well as ragwort) is preventing us from selling the hay. 3.2 Pink Chestnut avenue . Contractors are about to take out a further nine diseased chestnuts. TRDC tree surgeons will remove a further eight later in the year. JA asked if the track could be reinstated after the work, as it has been left rutted and muddy on a previous occasion. 3.3 The Montessori School wished to plant a commemorative tree. It was suggested that a rowan would be suitable, possibly in the area by the felled holm oak, where the children play. ACTION TV to contact school. 3.4 Removal of pines. Daniel Monk is removing two dangerous Corsican pines. KF was asked if they could be replaced by Dawn Redwoods. 3.5 Northwood College would be orienteering again on 15 March. 3.6 A butterfly survey had been provided by Bill Cattle. (On file). 3.7 Woodwalk . CMS volunteers would be visiting on Wed. 22 nd Feb. JA suggested that we take cuttings from the parkland rhododendrons to replace those removed in Wood Walk.

4 Working parties had continued to clear brambles and scrub in the area round the holm oak. It was suggested that further tasks might involve removing elder scrub from the rhododendrons along the A404.

5. Aob. 5.1 Maintenance of compound buildings. ACTION KF to chase up. 5.2 Parkland daffodils . RK said he would ask the footballers to keep off. 5.3 Offer of help . Fay Caplin had very generously offered the services of her gardener. It was agreed that mowing the grass in the Sunken Garden and on Dell Mound might be two jobs he could usefully take on. ACTION TV to contact FC.

6. Date of next meeting: TBC.

19.5.16 2011 AGM 3 February 2012

Committee Members: ( * indicates present)

Janet Anders * John Aves * Anthony Boswell * Eleanor Clarke * Roger Dennis * Phil Ellis Kay Fitzgerald TRDC * Max Green * Jackie Hale Margaret Jarrett * Roger Killick * Monty Leib *

121 Petrina Llewellyn CMS Robin Oborn Kathy Stables Tim Venner *

Also in attendance: Jean Nash, Bill Cattle, and Cllr. Martin Trevett.

1. Welcome. The Chairman welcomed those present, and said it had been a good year. We had been re-awarded our Green Flag; the pond had been restored; a number of visitors had expressed interest in the Estate at Village Day.

2. Apologies for absence had been received from Jackie Hale, Robin Oborn, Karina Wheeler, John Moore, Doreen Cattermole, Phil Ellis, Reg Collison, Paula Connor, Tim & Alex Fowkes, Pat Howell and Jim Milledge.

3. The minutes of the 2010 AGM were approved and signed.

4. Treasurer’s Report. MG presented the Annual Accounts which showed current assets of £951.16 (copy on file). Since the accounts had been published, a cheque for £350 had been received from the Parish Council, as part of the proceeds from the Parish Quiz. The accounts were duly adopted. The Treasurer thanked the honorary auditor David Culling.

5. Secretary’s Report (copy on file). This having been previously circulated, the Secretary took questions. 5.1 Children’s Play Facilities. In answer to a question, Cllr. Trevett praised the Parish Council’s working party for its thorough investigation of possible locations. The Common, and the Estate appeared to be the only realistic areas. MT would like the Parish to specify exactly what would NOT be acceptable on the Common before TRDC went out to public consultation. ML asked why we needed formal play facilities when the Estate and the Common both afforded opportunities for tree climbing and informal play. MT replied that the Council had identified a need in the Chorleywood area, and had allocated money to remedy this. J.Anders asked if there was a local farmer who had a field where there were fewer restrictions. J.Aves asked if the Ferry Car Park in Lower Road had been considered - it had many advantages. ACTION TV to follow up.

6. Report by Kay Fitzgerald (TRDC) 6.1 Buildings maintenance. Money was available in alternate years for basic maintenance of the buildings in the compound. 6.2 Grazing projects . It was hoped that funding would become available this year to provide stock-fencing. The fencing would be mainly within the existing tree line, and would have a top strand of barbed wire. A local farmer was willing to bring his cattle. The sheep would be unlikely to return, but KF was looking at the possibility of small cattle such as Dexters in the Nature Reserve, and Dell Field. 6.3 Ragwort continued to pose a problem. Pulling seemed to be the only acceptable solution since “weed-wiping” or any other application of chemicals would affect other plants. 6.4 Kay expressed her warm thanks to all the Friends, especially the volunteer working parties, for all their hard work in looking after the Estate. The Chairman replied that it was a pleasure to work with Kay, our link officer at TRDC, and thanked her for her encouragement and enthusiasm. AGREED by acclamation.

7. Election of Committee. The existing Committee having expressed their willingness to serve for another year, they were re-elected en bloc. (Prop. JN, seconded BC.)

122 8. Aob. 8.1 Community Orchard. MG expressed his appreciation that the Orchard was making such good use of part of the Estate.

9. Closure. There being no further business, the Chairman thanked members for attending, and closed the meeting at 11. 40.

19.6 Appendix 6: Chorleywood Community Orchard Constitution and Meeting Minutes

The constitution for the Chorleywood Community Orchard sets out the various objectives, powers, finances, insurance and administration for the group and is shown below.

1. Name 1.1 The Name of the Group is Chorleywood Community Orchard (“CCO”).

2. Aims & Objectives 2.1 To create, develop and maintain a Community Orchard in the grounds of Chorleywood House, for the benefit of the visiting public in general and for local people in particular through education, conservation, recreation and pleasure and for the protection of local wildlife. 2.2 To encourage community involvement in the development and management of the Community Orchard. 2.3 To create and maintain a Community Orchard that reflects local distinctiveness, thereby enhancing the natural environment for the public benefit. 2.4 To grow and conserve a mix of local and interesting varieties of top fruit, in particular to conserve for the benefit of future generations of the public those varieties not widely planted or whose future may be at risk. 2.5 To optimise the potential for wildlife. 2.6 To create and execute a management plan for the Orchard and annual work programmes, in consultation with wildlife consultants/orchard experts, where appropriate. 2.7 To endeavour to maintain sure, safe and easy access to the Community Orchard at all reasonable time. 2.8 To offer a place for recreation, quiet contemplation, where horticulture and wildlife management can be passed on/learnt and practised. 2.9 To grow a harvest of fruit that can be shared - as decided by the Executive Committee - leaving some for wildlife. 2.10 To raise awareness of the activities and ethos of the Community Orchard. 2.11 To offer a host of activities from practical management and education to celebration and appreciation of the harvest. 2.12 To encourage the creation of more community orchards and green spaces in the locality and to liaise with other community orchard groups. 2.13 To engage in such measures as from time to time seem appropriate to achieve these objects. In furtherance of these aims, the Group intends that the Community Orchard should be accessible to whosoever expresses an interest in its aims and that no unreasonable restrictions be placed upon such access.

3. Powers 3.1 CCO may undertake activities required to achieve its aims, including holding meetings, fundraising, setting up and managing bank accounts, producing leaflets and newsletters, holding events, consulting and raising membership subscriptions.

123 3.2 The Executive Committee shall decide further powers as necessary. 3.3 A Company Limited by Guarantee or a Community Interest Company may be formed in order that the Group may own land and property through lease or freehold in furtherance of its objectives.

4. Membership 4.1 Membership of the Group is open to all local residents and others who are also supportive of the aims of the Group. 4.2 The Executive Committee shall have the right for good and sufficient reason to terminate the membership of any individual who, by actions, words or otherwise, undermines, or seeks to undermine, the objects of the Group. 4.3 Any person shall receive membership of the Group upon being accepted by, and giving their name and address to, any member of the committee. 4.5 Membership fees may from time to time be levied.

5. The Executive Committee and Officers The Executive Committee shall consist of: 5.1.1 Officers – Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. 5.1.2 Up to six other members of CCO who shall fill other roles as required. 5.2 The Committee shall have the power to fill vacancies/co-opt additional members as required. 5.3 The Executive Committee is elected at the Annual General Meeting. 5.4 The Chair and the Officers of the Executive Committee are elected by the Executive Committee at its first meeting after the AGM. 5.5 Three Members of the Executive Committee must be present at any meeting for it to be quorate, of whom at least two must be Officers. 5.6 The Committee shall decide when and where it will meet, with a minimum of three meeting per year, with adequate notice given to all committee members, and a record of meetings and decisions shall be kept. 5.7 The normal term of office shall be two years. Those members who have completed a two-year term may offer themselves for re-election. 5.8 Voting. All questions arising at any meeting, with the exception of those affecting alterations to the Constitution shall be decided by a majority of members present and voting at such a meeting. 5.9 No member shall exercise more than one vote except that in the case of an equality of votes the Chair shall have a second or casting vote.

6. Annual General Meeting 6.1 An Annual General Meeting shall be held each year and no more than 15 months may elapse between AGMs. 6.2 21 days notice shall be given to all members; this notice may be given by email, by notice in appropriate local newspaper, and by poster in appropriate locations. Postal notification to each individual member is not required. 6.3 Other general meetings may be called as required either by decision of the Executive Committee or if requested by 15 individual members. 6.4 At the AGM the following business will be conducted: 6.4.1 Report from the Executive Committee on the work and achievements of the Group; 6.4.2 Election of the Executive Committee; 6.4.3 Report on the finances of the Group, and receipt and approval of the accounts for the year; 6.4.4 Appointment of Auditors or external validator.

7. Finance

124 7.1 The Treasurer will keep proper accounts of all monies, and will report to the Executive Committee at each meeting and to the AGM. 7.2.1 All bank accounts opened on behalf of the Group will be in the name of CCO and will require two signatures for any transaction. 7.2.2 At least three approved signatories will be arranged from members of the Executive Committee, of whom at least two shall be Officers. 7.3 The annual statement of accounts will be externally approved by an accountant prior to submission to the AGM. At such time as a Company Limited by Guarantee or a Community Interest Company be formed and the Group is responsible for land or property through lease or freehold, the accounts shall be formally audited. 7.4 The financial year runs from April 1 st to March 31 st . 7.5 All monies received by on behalf of the Group shall be applied in furtherance of the Aims and Objectives of the Group and for no other purpose.

8. Alterations to the Constitution 8.1 This constitution may be rescinded or amended at any General Meeting by a two thirds majority of those present, provided such a motion has been approved by the appropriate authorities and that a copy of the proposed alteration has been made available to all members via post, internet or a central collection point, and that 21 days notice has been given.

9. Dissolution 9.1 The Group may at any time be dissolved by a resolution passed by a two thirds majority at any General Meeting, provided that such a motion has been approved by the appropriate authorities and that the motion has been made available to all members via internet or a central collection point, and that 21 days notice has been given. 9.2 All monies remaining shall be given or transferred to a group with similar aims and objectives, to be agreed at the meeting where a resolution for dissolution is approved. 9.3 In no circumstances shall the net assets of the Group be paid to or distributed among the members of the Group.

Constitution adopted at meeting of Executive Committee 16 th February 2009

Chorleywood Community Orchard Chair: Alison Rubens Secretary: Callum Just Treasurer: John Beech

19.6.1 18 November 2008 (inaugural Meeting)

Present: Alison Rubens (AR), Eleanor Clarke (EC), Chris Kemp (CK), Sandra Kemp (SK), Callum Just (CJ), Ann Nelstrop (AN)

Apologies: Richard Hartley

1. Formal establishment of group Group name proposed by AR: Chorleywood Community Orchard (CCO). Approved. SK proposed AR to be Chair, CK seconded. Approved. AR proposed AN as Vice-Chair, seconded by SK. Approved. AR proposed CJ to be Secretary, CK seconded. Approved.

125 Treasurer to be confirmed, maybe Paul Anders, Nick Simons, RH. Press Secretary proposed in absence RH. AR to approach Kay Fitzgerald to join committee Draft constitution considered, following the format in Common Ground’s Community Orchard Handbook. Agreed with minor amendments. AR to circulate revised draft for approval by committee.

2. Authority to set up bank account Resolved to appoint NatWest as bankers, a/c to be opened at Chorleywood branch. Proposed signatories for the bank account AN, SK and the Treasurer (TBC). Agreed. Transactions under £50 to have one signatory only, larger transactions to be approved by any 2 signatories. Meeting resolved not to levy membership subscription but database to be kept. EC agreed to start finding sources of money, grants etc. Need to know what the expenses will be.

3. Approach TRDC for support AR to write letter to Three Rivers DC with information on officers of CCO.

4. Website and logo RH is contacting Tony Jarrett, with help from CJ . Logo not a tree, picture of apples or three fruit - apple, pear and plum. SK to look into finding someone to help design logo.

5. Apple identification forms AR and CJ to complete task of distributing forms received from HOI.

6. Order stakes, ties and guards CK to research suppliers of stakes, ties etc. It was agreed to order plastic spiral tree guards initially, then in later years upgrade to mesh ones similar to those used by Roger Dudley (economies of bulk order). Labels to be temporary to start with then buy engraved ones in future (again for reasons of ordering economy). Will need to get hold of some compost – AR to approach TRDC about free compost from recycling.

7. Approach Chorleywood Parish Council EC to draft letter, group to approve.

8. Agree roles and responsibilities Covered in item 1.

9. Sponsorship agreements Cost of sponsorship set at £30 per tree. Names of sponsors in book and on website but names not to go on trees. Sponsors to be given choice of variety of tree where possible. Tree sponsors will not have priority over fruit of their tree. AR and CJ to draft sponsorship agreement and circulate for approval. Book to be kept in the library.

10. Orchard layout RH to progress this. Fruit types to be kept together and pollination times to be grouped appropriately.

11. Publicity for planting Difficult to set a firm date for the planting because of weather.

126 Need to find a patron; possibilities, Nigel Slater, Joe Swift, Cleve West.

12. Outstanding permissions AR to chase Petrina Llewellyn to obtain necessary permissions.

12. Next year’s tree order CK to recommend another 25 trees - apple trees including remaining local varieties. Make list by next meeting as grafting needs to start by Feb 2009.

13. Newsletter No need to start a newsletter until after planting. Mail shot to be used before.

14. 2009 Programme Committee to visit other orchards. Martin Hicks has orchard he’s happy to show us. Apple Day 2009: To be held on Saturday 17 th October 2009 Members to bring own apples for juicing; Use Summer House in Chorleywood House Estate; EC to write to Tim to ask for use of the Summer House Have a presence at Village Day Next Committee Meeting, 8 th January 2009 at 1.30pm Further Committee Meeting on 5 th March 2009 at 1.30pm AGM 2 nd June 2009 at 8.00pm ( SK to book library)

15. Any Other Business AR to enquire about public liability insurance cover.

19.6.2 2 February 2009

Present: Alison Rubens (AR) Chair; Eleanor Clarke (EC) Vice-Chair; Callum Just (CJ) Secretary; Michael Hyde (MH) Director of Fundraising; Ann Nelstrop (AN)

Apologies: John Beech (JB) Treasurer; Richard Hartley ( RH)

1. Approval of minutes of previous meeting (18 th November 2008) Minutes unanimously approved, signed by AR.

2. Matters Arising AN does not want to be Vice-Chair at the moment. EC offered to take over, AR proposed, SK seconded. Unanimous vote. JB proposed by AR to be Treasurer, CK seconded. Unanimous vote. MH proposed by AR as Director of Fundraising (an Officer’s post). Unanimous vote. EC to enquire further about public liability insurance. Constitution changes. All approved. • Now all cheques to have two signatories (7.2.2 removed) • Emphasise public benefit to ensure no obstacle to charitable status • Move access clause up in list • 8.1: make clear appropriate authorities must approve constitutional changes • Ditto 9.1 • 9.3: make clear any left over monies do not get distributed among the officers. • Three Rivers queried breadth of powers (3.1); AR talk to TRDC and report back.

Constitution unanimously approved.

127

3. Correspondence SK to contact Howard Ringland to organise compost. All mailed correspondence will go through AR at The Orchard so that database can be maintained by CJ .

4. Trees & sundries orders/planting Feb 2009/Orchard layout Planting questions • Orders have gone in for stakes (£4.27 each) and ties £128.28. • Metal mesh guards are around £13 each ( SK to check with R. Dudley) • Mulch mats £3.20 each but not needed till later on. • Permanent labels again not needed until later. • Staking out to take place this weekend – Saturday 7 th Feb, 10.00am. • CK to work out which trees go where in Orchard. • Meet at 10am at the Orchard site. RH’s revised plan with measurements (and instructions) was tabled and will be used for staking out and planting.

5. TRDC and Permissions AR to chase up Kay Fitzgerald re. final permission for the Orchard.

6. Website and Logo Website - CJ to get in contact with T Jarratt to get content up and website live. Unanimous vote to keep letter-heading logo but to keep working on website logo. SK to pass on thanks for suggestions received.

7. Sponsorship Agreement Group discussion about wording and format of letter and form. Final alterations to be done by AR and emailed to the committee.

8. Treasurer Treasurer to be responsible for setting up and keeping the books but not fundraising.

9. Bank Account Two signatories will be needed for all cheques. Gift aid on donations will be sought where possible. MH to keep records and process claims in due course. Approved signatories: AR, JB, MH, SK, AN Bank account will be held at Barclays Bank in Chorleywood – JB to set up. Signatories must take 3 forms of ID to the bank once the account is set up. AR will send the minutes and amended constitution to JB ASAP.

10. Publicity CJ has been working on a press pack, which will be sent out to the committee then to various press and radio organisations closer to planting date. AR will follow up on getting a celebrity to support the Orchard.

11. Newsletter The first newsletter will go out after the planting takes place.

12. Next year’s tree order Graft to order 37 apple trees (Hertfordshire varieties). CK to choose which supplier(s) and order trees (before end of Feb).

128 13. 2009 Programme Staking out tree positions at site (committee) - Sat 7 th February 10am. Planting trees - Sat 28 th February starting at 10am. Inaugural meeting for members - 2 nd June at 8.00pm in the Library. Apple Day – Saturday 17 th October 2009. Orchard visit to Sarratt (committee) - SK to arrange.

14. Any other business JB reported that CCO had received a cheque for £100 from the Chorleywood Tenants’ and Leaseholders’ Association – AR to write letter of thanks. The Horticultural Society will send a cheque for £150 once a bank account is set up.

15. Date of next meeting Thursday, 12 th March 10.00am at the Orchard, Common Road.

19.6.3 30 April 2009

Present: Alison Rubens (AR); Chris Kemp (CK); Sandra Kemp (SK); Callum Just (CJ); Michael Hyde (MH)

Apologies: Richard Hartley (RH); Ann Nelstrop (AN); John Beech (JB); Kay Fitzgerald (KF); Eleanor Clarke (EC)

1. Minutes of previous meeting (12 th March 2009) Approved.

2. Matters arising Work party to meet at 10am 8 th May at the Orchard to finish staking and mulching.

3. Correspondence AR has been given a £55.00 contributor fee from the BBC, which will be paid into the Community Orchard account. AR is to check with KF about outstanding permissions and budget requirements.

4. Treasurer’s report / budget / sponsorship agreements / Gift Aid Noted that the Orchard cheque book states “J. Beech trading as…” AR to ask JB to contact the bank and change this so as not to give the public the wrong impression. AR, SK and CK have all been reimbursed for prior tree purchases. Tree order for next year has now been paid for but sundries need to be looked into. SK to get quotes for stakes, ties and mulch mats. MH has sent JB a rough 3-year budget and is awaiting reply.

5. Fundraising Apple press and crusher (Vigo), cost may be met with a TRDC capital grant CJ to look into this then email MH a quote. MH reported he had heard from Waitrose about involvement in community program. AR to forward sponsorship forms to MH to enable Gift Aid to be reclaimed.

6. Website Committee felt more can be done with the Orchards’ website. Suggestions for items to add include: what’s happening each month, events, recipe page, more pictures. SK to talk to Tony Jaret about upkeep.

7. Publicity

129 Very good response from the BBC 4 radio show. KF to look further into getting the Orchard leaflets published.

8. Orchard maintenance Priority is to get remaining tree guards on and then to cover the mulch mats with mulch as animals have started eating them. A date has already been set for a working party to meet and carry out the work. Trees may need to be sprayed against mildew. AR concerned about the number of caterpillars, will try to remove manually.

9. Next year’s tree order and orchard layout CK and SK to finalise tree order for committee approval at the next meeting. CJ to email last bits of required information to SK.

10. Future programme Produce and distribute an AGM notice for 7 th May. Special committee meeting to be held to go over the running order of the AGM. SK to produce a poster advertising the AGM and put it up around Chorleywood.

11. Any other business AR to look into getting a book for the library to record sponsors’ details. Committee approved this expenditure, subject to details of actual cost.

12. Date of next meeting TBC by email CJ.

19.6.4 14 September 2009

Present: Alison Rubens (AR); Michael Hyde (MH); Sandra Kemp (SK); Callum Just (CJ)

Apologies: Richard Hartley (RH); Eleanor Clarke (EC); Chris Kemp (CK); Ann Nelstrop (AN); Kay Fitzgerald (KF); John Beech (JB)

1. Approval of minutes of previous meeting Approved.

2. Matters arising None.

3. Waitrose Community Matters Press Day for celebration of first anniversary of Community Matters scheme – 22 nd September, 11am. Guests will visit the Orchard and then refreshments and presentation of cheques will take place at the Summer House. CJ to check with KF when the cut and lift will take place in the Orchard. AR understood it would take place around the 5 th . MH to find out how many, and which, people Waitrose will be inviting. Subject to that, AR will invite 10 Orchard supporters as agreed. SK wants to make sure representatives from both the Parish Council and District Council will be attending. MH will ask if Waitrose can bring apple juice, as AR and SK are unable to supply enough apples from this year’s crop. The event will take place in the Summer House but Waitrose will be supplying everything (tables, glasses etc.) needed. CJ to speak to RH and ensure recent plan of Orchard layout available.

4. Apple Day

130 Will take place on the 17 th October from 11am – 3pm. SK to bring selection of apple varieties for a display (single examples) and will also supply 3 varieties (distinct and unusual if possible) for tasting samples. AR will chase up donation of surplus apples for juicing on the day as well as buying an apple peeler to use as an activity for children. CJ to make a poster for display in the library and the Orchard noticeboard. SK and AR to bring some tables to put up in the Summer House. CJ to bring enlarged tree plan and grid references list. Will also pass on copy to SK.

5. Website CJ to get in contact with Peter Fleming about website hosting and a programme to edit the new website with. AR reported that there may be a small annual fee for the website – details to follow. SK and MH very impressed with new website.

6. Tree Planting 23 trees to be planted in Nov/Dec 2009. AR to talk to Tim Venner to thank him for the tree guards and also ask if a working party could be put together to dig holes and bury stakes. SK to check with tree suppliers when the trees will be dispatched. SK to ask JB to make small tree marker stakes and will check compost availability. CJ, AR, SK: 31 st /1 st of Oct/Nov to stake out the 23 new trees to be planted.

7. Any other business Date for next year’s AGM set for the 11 th May 2010 in Chorleywood Library. SK to book and contact Sue Clifford of Common Ground as a possible speaker. MH to chase TRDC re cheque for £1000. CJ to phone Richard Hartley about final tree layout plan.

8. Next Meeting 12 th 13 th or 14 th January 2010 next committee meeting at 10am. CJ to email committee to confirm which date.

19.6.5 25 February 2010

Present: Alison Rubens (AR); Eleanor Clarke (EC); Michael Hyde (MH); Chris Kemp (CK); Sandra Kemp (SK)

Apologies: John Beech (JB) ; Kay Fitzgerald (KF); Ann Nelstrop (AN); Callum Just (CJ)

1. Approval of minutes of previous meeting (19 th January 2010) Item 4 - the abbreviation EOP changed to EEAOP (East of England Apple and Orchards Project). Approved unanimously. EC to recirculate to the Committee.

2. Matters arising Treasurer - AR to confirm with JB that he would remain as a helper to CCO, should he step down as Treasurer and as a Committee member at the AGM. MH confirmed that should it become necessary, he would be prepared to act as Treasurer until a replacement for JB be appointed. Pruning – Derek Hillier’s advice had been taken and SK confirmed that the year old trees had been pruned and fed with blood, fish and bone. Ties should be placed within 4 or 5 inches of the top. AR to write a letter of thanks to DH. SK warned that 3

131 or 4 of the 11 trees from Deacons needed to be watched to ensure that good leaders were produced. Website – Andrew Bungard may become involved with the design, using the lively Trumpington Orchard site as a good model. Permissions - KF had been unable to grant permission for beehives to be placed within the orchard – Committee members to investigate what other sites might be suitable. It is likely that TRDC approval would be required for artwork to be placed on site.

3. Correspondence None to report, other than the considerable number of unfiltered e-mails from Herts Orchard Initiative.

4. Organising of next planting day/working party AR noted that only one person had expressed their disappointment at the postponement of the January planting. Cages – following JB’s experience of erecting one, it was agreed that they should be buried about 6 inches, stapled to the existing tree stake - EC has a box of staples – mulch mats to be laid down with hole cut to fit outside the guard – SK to obtain more mulch – the 86 guards and 22 stakes on site to be moved out of the Ranger’s way. Guard party – Saturday 13th March at 10.00 am. CJ to e-mail sponsors to invite them to take part – guards to be placed around the unprotected trees - EC to contact Tim Venner (TV) to invite his working party too – requirements: 4lb hammer, sharp spade or half-moon cutter and probably a strong pair of scissors – SK to experiment with cutting and report back to the Committee by e-mail. Tree orders – EEAOP have root stocks for 3 Hitchin Pippins at say £12 each – Keepers can supply plums and gages at say £15-£16 – cherries to come from Bernwode. SK to check with CJ as to which sponsors have been promised which varieties, including Frogmore damsons – if substitutes could be introduced it would save a 12 month delay in certain cases – CJ to e-mail sponsors of changes, if necessary. SK to enquire about possible regrafting. EEAOP are a not-for-profit organisation and if no extra charge is made for keeping the paid-for trees in their nursery, we could offer a donation – JB to note. Next planting – December 2010, though Bernwode cherries might be planted in October. Trees to be planted : 6 cherries (Bernwode), 16 plums and 11 crabs (Keepers), 37 apples (EEAOP) = 70 in total. Tree list - CJ to produce a list that can be sorted by alphabetical tree variety, grid position, sponsor’s name and, additionally, by supplier. Sue and Ron Beard - AR noted that their request for 2 further trees would take the total to 128 – EC and MH offered their two, if that would contain the total to the maximum possible. “Patrons” – offers of tree sponsorship were continuing to be received and this prompted a discussion on how best these offers could be accommodated. Committee members agreed to give this some thought, with a proposal to be tabled at the meeting on 19th April. Title of such a supporter, what the money would be used for, what the figure might be and how it might be collected were elements to be considered.

5. Record book The book-binder was ready to quote for binding and calligraphy. It was agreed that the book be a finite entity, of maybe 150 pages, with between maybe 5-12 illustrations – all dependent upon costs. The Library had offered to hold a copy, but not the original. AR kindly repeated her offer to pay for the book as her gift to the Orchard. Cards from the illustrations might be produced for sale. A second ‘scrap

132 book’ was considered to be a worthy archive, contributions to which should be collected now and added to in the future.

6. Ratification of new constitution The proposed amendments to the constitution were accepted as being necessary to establish the Orchard as being “a charity in law”. The committee noted that the amendments did not change the objectives of the Orchard other than by expressing them in a different way. The amended constitution would be circulated to members with the notice of the AGM, for adoption at the meeting. CJ to ensure that the definition of “members” should be made clear in the minutes of the 1 st AGM, if these have yet to be circulated – AR to check on circulation.

7. Confirmation of public liability insurance EC to speak to TV to confirm whether the Orchard volunteers, events and apple press would be covered under the FCHE policy with BTCV (British Trust for Conservation Volunteers), if necessary for an additional premium.

8. Commissioning/purchasing of benches AR to follow-up with Fairlie Furniture (Scotland) or Thames Valley Sawmills with the objective of obtaining 2 benches within the £1,200 grant from Herts CC.

9. Notice board modifications AR to ask JB for a simpler design, based on swivel clips rather than a hinge.

10. AGM organisation Date 18 th May – venue the Royal British Legion Hall – cost : probably a small donation for the Poppy Appeal . SK to approach Derek Hillier as a possible speaker, or Martin Skipper or someone from the HOI regional conference. Alternatively, we might do something ‘social’ as we will have use of the kitchen.

11. AOB It was agreed that AR and EC should attend the Herts Orchard Initiative East of England regional conference on 11 th March, at a cost to CCO of £10 per head.

12. Date of next meeting Monday 19 th April, at 10.00am

19.6.6 7 June 2010

Present: Alison Rubens (AR); Sandra Kemp (SK); Michael Hyde (MH); Eleanor Clarke (EC); Barbara Stunell (BS); Andrew Bungard (AB)

Apologies: Chris Kemp (CK)

1. Minutes of previous meeting (19 th April 2010) Approved.

2. Matters arising None

3. Correspondence Kay Fitzgerald (Three Rivers DC) has requested small changes to the wording of the constitution. As these were received with insufficient time to be circulated and

133 incorporated before the AGM Kay has agreed to accept a letter of comfort and the changes will be incorporated at the next update of the constitution.

4. AGM Follow-up Appointment of Michael Hyde as Treasurer and Barbara Stunell as Secretary. AR proposed. Approved. Signatories for CCO account agreed as AR, MH, SK and BS. The website address to be put on the notice board. MH to create a form for Village Day to enable people to sign up as Patrons or Benefactors. The form will be added as a link from the website. Also an e-mail link to AR from website. Action: MH

5. Treasurer’s report MH pursuing grants but it is proving difficult to get funding for maintenance items. Intention to explain and emphasise this at Village Day. MH will have supply of Patron/Benefactor forms available. Confirmed that sponsors will be recognised in Sponsor’s Record Book. Patrons and Benefactors to be listed on website (with their permission) and in a separate loose leaf book. Sponsors to be asked at next circulation of information to opt out if they do not want their names to appear on the website. AB suggested approaching garden centres for sponsorship. SK to approach Van Hage’s. Action: MH, AB, SK

6. Village Day arrangements July 10th, 12 – 4. EC to confirm with Tim Venner (TV) for joint pitch with Friends of Chorleywood House and provision of table. Gazebo required – AR to contact neighbour initially, if unavailable SK to ask Christian Aid. Available for Village Day AR, EC, MH, BS. AB, SK and CK unavailable. Required on day: planting map from SK, easel from EC, apple juice to sell and leaflets from AR, Patron/Benefactor forms and small float from MH. AB to investigate cost of printing stickers to give out showing CCO website address. Action: EC, AR, SK, MH, AB

7. Working Parties and Orchard Maintenance AR to ask Yvonne Merritt, Parish Clerk, for water trough to be moved. EC to ask TV for permission to leave hose in generator house and AR to have a key and for TV to mow paths and centre circle. EC to request Chorleywood House Working Party cut turf from grid positions prior to autumn tree planting (SK and CK will mark out positions in advance). AR suggested a midweek, mid-month evening working party at 7.00pm. Need to arrange planting days for autumn. All trees now ordered except 2 from Dardilly. Confirmation due in September that Bernwode able to supply order.

SK has sprayed trees with organic pyrethrum. Trees still need organic mildew spray. AB suggested mycorrhizal fungi root builder be used in autumn planting. Committee agreed this should be used, possibly in a controlled experiment. Action: AR, EC, SK, CK

8. Benches Rangers have suggested permanent fixing of benches using angle irons and concrete. Total charge £153.32 for labour and materials. Expenditure agreed. To be sited 1 by chestnut trees looking towards Chorleywood House and 1 backing onto Beaumont House. MH received request from Herts CC for plaques to be put on benches recording donation from HCC. Consensus that committee prefer no plaque as sponsors, patrons, etc, are not credited on site. Provision for donation to be recorded on website, record books and on notice board. MH to feedback to HCC. Action: MH

9. Sponsor’s Record Book

134 Artist Barbara Sedassy has not responded to AR regarding 12 illustrations for Record Book yet. AR to follow-up. BS to contact bookbinder. SK showed examples of suggested text. Action: AR, BS

10. Website AB taking over from Peter Fleming (PF) and joining committee. Require change to scrolling message re AGM, addition of list of tree varieties, Village and Apple Day details, link to revised constitution, photos, link to Patron/Benefactor form, e-mail link to AR, working/watering party details (1 st Saturday of each month. If possible, please bring watering can, edging shears, hand fork, gloves, border fork, kneeling pad). AR to send constitution to AB. New links to be added to/from Common Ground and National Trust. SK to take photos in autumn of trees in fruit to be added to website. PF reported 97 hits to website the previous month. Action: AB, AR, SK

11. AOB Future events: suggested wassailing. Consensus that this maybe better when trees are more mature. EC to e-mail committee a 200 word script for entry onto Common Ground website. AR to check links to growers CCO has used. SK asked whether CCO covered for insurance for Apple Day. AR and MH confirmed. EC to remind TV CCO need a copy of Friends of Chorleywood House insurance to be sent to MH. Action: AR, EC

12. Date of next meeting • Monday, September 13 th 2010 @ 10.00am • Village Day – Saturday, July 10 th , 12.00 – 4.00pm • Apple Day – Saturday, October 2 nd 2010, 11.00am – 3.00pm

19.6.7 30 November 2010

Present: Alison Rubens (Chair, AR), Eleanor Clarke (EC), Michael Hyde (MH), Callum Just (CJ), Chris Kemp (CK), Sandra Kemp (SK)

Apologies: Andrew Bungard (AB), Kay Fitzgerald (KF), Barbara Stunell (BS)

1. Minutes of previous meeting (13 th September 2010) Approved without comment.

2. Matters arising Bernwode have informed SK that they will have no cherries or damsons this year. EEAOP have confirmed their intention to deliver their 37 trees in early January. SK to ask about cherries and damsons. Action: SK

3. Planting Day - Saturday 4 th December 2010 Postponed until Saturday 11 th December , subject to suitable weather conditions – Keepers have had to postpone the lifting and delivery of their trees until week commencing 6 th December. SK to inform AR when trees are delivered and then a decision to be taken as to whether planting may be carried out on 11 th December, or postponed until the New Year . Action: SK, AR

Actions consequent upon this change, and to be reviewed again in light of planting decision • E-mail to planters, Guides, Greg, Les, Jeremy and cc Petrina Action: AR • E-mail to Chris Hayward, Scouts and Mr Goldstein Action: MH

135 • E-mail to Jill Visser Action : EC • Rammers to be delayed for a week Action : MH, SK • Keys to Generator House and gate to be passed to MH Action: EC • Website to be updated and include invitation to attend pruning demo on 5 th February Action: AB

4. Extra Trees Following an earlier visit to the orchard, it was agreed that in addition to the 128 spaces to which trees had already been allotted, there were a further 10 spaces that were now available for extra trees – F14, G13, H13, H14, I12, I13, J11, M5, M7 and N3. As a result of the inclusion of the additional trees, a realignment of the existing damsons would enable 8 new apples and 2 new damsons to be selected. AR, CK, SK to agree on the varieties to be planted and it was agreed that 6 cider apples would be a worthwhile and interesting inclusion. Action : AR, CK, SK The extra trees would enable all 10 interested parties on the waiting list to have trees allocated to them. AR to write to all concerned, once their varieties had been selected. Action : AR Clare and Neil Morrison to be informed of the repositioning of Bradley’s King to H13. Action : MH Henceforth, unless a reappraisal of the situation in the summer were to reveal any further opportunities, future financial supporters of the orchard would become benefactors or patrons.

5. AOB • Stakes and guards – review the numbers of each now required for completion. Guards to be metal as now, but wider, with a hinged centre panel, to make tree maintenance simpler. Measurements and catalogue item to be confirmed. Action : MH, SK • French cherries – SK to follow-up – varieties from Dardilly Horticultural College? Action : SK • Benches – quotes to be obtained from Fairlie Action : AR • Water supply – AR to speak to TRDC about the provision of 3 standpipes along the top of the orchard. Hosepipes from those would fill the two troughs and provide water to the lower reaches of the orchard. Venturi to increase pressure (John Beech/Robin Barber?) Action : AR • Tree Council – MH informed the meeting that to obtain a grant, the Tree Council will require a copy of the letter authorising the planting of trees on the site. Action : AR

6 Dates of next meetings • Committee meeting – Monday, January 17th, 1330 – 1530 Monday, 21 st February, 1330 – 1530 – tentative – tbc on 17 January • Planting days – New Year Saturdays – tbc • Working parties – provisionally, 1 st Saturday of each month from 5 th February to 3 rd September, to cover planting, pruning, spring weeding, grass cutting and watering. For pruning on 5 th February, SK to ask Derek Hillier for instructions and demonstration. Action : SK • AGM – mid May – in Hollybush, British Legion Hall or Library – SK to enquire. Action : SK • Apple Day – Saturday, October 1 st 2011, 11.00am – 3.00pm. We have enquired about reserving the Summer House, should the need arise. Action : EC

136 19.6.8 13 September 2010

Present: Alison Rubens (Chair) (AR), Andrew Bungard (AB), Eleanor Clarke (EC), Michael Hyde (MH), Chris Kemp (CK), Sandra Kemp (SK)

Apologies: Kay Fitzgerald, Callum Just, Barbara Stunell

Minutes of previous meeting (7 th June 2010) Approved without comment.

1. Matters arising None referred to.

2. Apple Day – 9.00am arrival time for setting up; event 11.00am – 3.00pm • Provision of apples for sale and juicing – AR has e-mailed Waitrose for the same as last year, including the boys and their stand and recipe cards. Mike Clark is bringing 60-80, SK will have some to sell and some to juice, AB will bring cooking apples. Several sharp knives will be required. AR will send a general e- mail asking people to bring what they can. Last year John Beech [JB] bought a 28lb box of Coxes from J&J May. Action: AB, SK, AR

• Toffee apples – SK to approach J&J May for 60 apples – selling price to be agreed when the cost is confirmed – last year JB bought 18 @ 66p each from J&J May. Action: SK

• Apple peeling – AR will bring the 3 peelers, EC to be in charge and will provide small prizes, including the Village Day stickers, for giving to everyone whose peel is more than a certain length. Action: EC, AR

• Apple juice and pressing – AB and MH to be in charge, AR to check the number of plastic cups she has (200 bought last year), 4 or 5 jugs required, bin bags required. Action: AB, MH, AR

• Tables and easels – 8 tables and 2 easels are required for: Selling apples - Peeling - Display - Michael Clark’s ID - Waitrose tasting - Juicing cups and jugs - Juicing apple cutting - Leaflets/ Benefactors forms - Displaying Orchard plan SK to bring planting plan, 2 std trestles plus others and one easel from church, 1 of 2 heavy in Summer House if not being used by Arts event, EC will bring pasting table and 2 nd easel for the plan, MH to bring picnic table, AR kitchen table is demountable. Action: EC, MH, SK, AR

• Easels – EC will bring one for the planting plan, SK will bring another from church Action: EC, SK • Float – MH to supply small floats for Apple ID and apple sales. Action : MH

• Direction notices – AB to produce, with laminated arrows, to direct people to the orchard itself, as well as to Apple Day, and that stand out from the “Arts” event in the Summer House. SK to provide small stakes from church. Action: AB, SK

137 • Wet weather provision – EC to clear space in the generator house and noted that the well house offered a covered space too. MH to let SK know if 2 large Scouts tents, or Chorleywood Primary’s small marquee, are available, otherwise she would approach Woodbridge. SK to delay decision until a few days before, depending on the weather. Action: MH, SK

• Publicity – AR will write a press release for publication one week before the event. SK will put up posters in the village – library, bookshop, butcher, Stratton bakery, Ginty and on the allotment sites. It was suggested that a banner should be considered for next year. 3. Planting • Trees – Bernwode have informed SK that they will have no cherries or damsons this year. SK has e-mailed EEAOP about their apple deliveries and will ask about cherries and damsons. Action: SK

• Tree spaces – Damsons increased from 10 to 11 to take up the 129 th tree space. Examination of the area at the Solesbridge Lane top corner shows that there are four additional spaces there, that might be used for more apples, in spite of the proximity of the old chestnut tree. • Crabs line – It was noted that the final two trees would be in the worst positions, relative to the Solesbridge gate. After concluding other business, the site was visited and it was agreed that the last three trees should be moved, to positions to be determined, and that the 8m distance to the apple trees be maintained. The crabs are not being delivered until after Christmas. • Planting days – The first date is to be Saturday 6th November, with 3 Hitchin Pippins, 1 Strawberry Heart cherry and 1 Early Rivers damson confirmed. Action: All • Fertiliser – Approval given to CK to apply fertiliser, around Apple Day. Action: CK • Health & Safety – EC and MH to attend First Aid courses to obtain the requisite qualification. Action: EC, MH

4. Benches It was agreed to accept an installation quotation of £212.94, with completion if possible by Apple Day. Action: AR

5. Cubs and Scouts – community service The potential help available from cubs and Scouts was welcomed. Besides assisting with planting, work might involve weeding in the autumn, watering in the summer and other miscellaneous jobs such as tree straps inspection and predator alert . MH to liaise with the Scout Leader. Action: MH

6. Website AB confirmed the changes made and that Apple Day 2010 was now included on the scroll bar.

7. Dates of next meetings • Apple Day – Saturday, October 2 nd 2010, 11.00am – 3.00pm • Planting day – Saturday, November 6 th 2010, from 10.00am • Committee meeting – Tuesday, November30 th , 10.00 am - noon

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19.6.9 January 17 th 2011

Present: Alison Rubens (AR, Chair), Eleanor Clarke (EC), Michael Hyde (MH), Barbara Stunell (BS), Chris Kemp (CK) Sandra Kemp (SK)

Apologies: Kay Fitzgerald (KF), Callum Just (CJ) Andrew Bungard (AB)

1. Minutes of previous meeting (November 30th 2010) Approved without comment.

2. Matters arising SK confirmed booking of British Legion Hall for AGM – Tuesday, May 17 th 2011. EC has informed Tim Venner that we require the summer house for Apple Day – Saturday, October 1 st 2011, from 11.00am. This is for backup in case of rain; the intention is to hold Apple Day in the orchard. Mike Clark has agreed to attend Apple Day 2011. AR intends to ask Mike’s wife, Anna, if she would like to sell preserves in aid of Tewin Orchard at next year’s Apple Day. Action: AR Extra trees: There was confusion about how many trees EEAOP are delivering for planting in February. SK has since confirmed with EEAOP that 37 are expected before 5 th February. An additional 10 trees (2 apples, 6 cider apples and 2 damsons) are to be ordered from Keepers for delivery winter 2011. Also due next winter from Bernwode are replacements of: 1 apple, 3 cherries and 5 damsons. Action: SK AR to contact 10 prospective sponsors on list for confirmation of acceptance and payment. Action: AR SK to send MH updated list/grid of sponsors. Action: SK SK still waiting to hear from Dardilly regarding cherry trees. Action: SK AR to speak to TRDC about the provision of standpipes along the top of the orchard. Also confirmation of Natural England’s permission for planting required from Kay Fitzgerald (needed by MH for grant application. Action: AR Benches: Fairlie have quoted £700 + VAT + delivery for a 3 rd bench. AR to contact and ask for a discount. Installation costs are an additional £200 approx. Action: AR

3. Speaker for AGM 2011 Suggestions were: Bill Turnbull, BBC news presenter and beekeeper; Sue Clifford or Angela King, Common Ground/The Apple Source Book; Rosie Sanders, botanical artist; Mary Berry or AN Other cook or writer; to contact the WI for a list of their speakers on preserves and/or RHS for a list of their speakers; to contact Chorleywood Book Shop for recommendations. Action: AR

4. Plans for further planting Last planting on December 11 th was very successful – 27 trees planted. Some guards are without ties. Guards are to metal, as now, but with wider hinged centre panel, to make tree maintenance simpler. SK reported on cost of galvanised, welded mesh roll (for 48” high x 25cm = £138 – 16 guards of 1.5m length per roll). MH to ask John Beech (JB) how to cut them, if JB would do this and at what cost Action: MH Next planting days are February 5th & 12th. AR to alert sponsors of planting days but advise to wait for confirmation that their tree is ready for planting. AR to notify helpers of planting date. Action: AR There are sufficient stakes but more ties are needed. SK to purchase. Action: SK Rammers and compost to be ordered. Action: MH, SK

139 AR to e-mail SK with Health & Safety info to add to planting instructions. Action: AR, SK

5. Treasurer’s report & Grants i) Grants received and spending to date Currently £6,000 in bank, of which £3,000 is Grassroots grant. Allocated spending of Grassroots is approx £1500 for benches and £1500 for planting materials which should be spent by end of March 2011. EC asked about extending mains water supply to orchard. MH to approach Veolia re cost. AR to approach Robin Barber. Action: MH, AR Gift Aid: awaiting response from HMRC. It appears that approx £1,000 of reclaimed tax may now not be available to CCO. Donors to be informed, possibly at AGM in May. Action: MH ii) Grants pending/to be applied for: £393 from TRDC for labels £400 from Tree Society National History Museum, Opal, Wildlife Societies Greenspace – possible collaboration with Friends of Chorleywood House, Friends of Chorleywood Common. For further info http://www.greenspace.org.uk/greenstat/hlf.php

6. AOB We need to buy more metal guards as some newly planted trees from December 2010 planting are without them. Action: SK Website needs updating and to include invitation to attend pruning demo on 5th February. Action: AB

7. Date of next meeting Monday, February 21 st is cancelled and a rescheduled date of Thursday, March 10 th at 10.00am at Alison’s house has been arranged.

19.6.10 10 March 2011

Present: Alison Rubens (AR) Chair; Eleanor Clarke (EC); Callum Just (CJ); Michael Hyde (MH); Sandra Kemp (SK); Barbara Stunell (BS)

Apologies: Andrew Bungard (AB); Kay Fitzgerald (KF); Chris Kemp (CK)

1. Minutes of previous meeting (January 17th 2011) Approved without amendment.

2. Matters arising Should his wife be unable to attend, Mike Clark has agreed to handle a small display of preserves for Tewin Orchard at Apple Day. EEAOP delivered the expected 37 trees. We gave a £50 donation for nurturing them for us for an extra year [receipt of which has been confirmed by EEAOP]. AR to contact the 3 remaining on the waiting list for confirmation or withdrawal and agree the tree numbers on the database with the tree plan. Action: AR SK still waiting to hear from Dardilly regarding their 2 cherry trees. Action: SK Confirmation of Natural England’s permission for planting [the first 24 trees] had been received from Kay Fitzgerald. Benches: Fairlie re-quoted £600 + VAT; delivery £75; installation tbc. Action: AR Deer guards have been successfully cut by Les Dacre. The remaining 2 rolls are to be cut into 32 x 1.5m guards for use at the April working party, at which the

140 existing 50 x 1.0m FOCHE guards to be undone and amalgamated to produce 25 x 2.0m matching guards. This will require a Phillips screwdriver, hammer and pincers – AR to note for supporters e-mail. Action: AR, MH, SK The existing plastic guards to be replaced with new wire ones, yet to be bought. Action: MH, SK AR to speak to Robin Barber about TRDC putting standpipes along the top of the orchard. Action: AR The Orchard is not within 5 miles of a Veolia Water “qualifying facility” and consequently we are not eligible for a grant from the funder, Entrust. AR to speak to Tim Venner about the possibility that some of Fay Caplin’s money might be available for the water supply. Action: AR MH to apply to TRDC for a small grant for 3 hosepipes with trolleys and connectors. Action: MH EC to ask Tim Venner about having a Generator House key cut. Action: EC Website is good - needs small amendment re photos/information. Action: AR, AB

3. Proposed amendments to Constitution The amendments agreed with Kay FitzGerald were discussed and it was decided that formal adoption could be deferred to the AGM in 2012 as there were no other changes required at this stage. The changes could be included with any others required in relation to the incorporation of the Orchard.

4. Charitable Incorporated Organisation MH noted that as the Orchard was an unincorporated association, Executive Committee members had unlimited personal liability for debts. The situation could be avoided if the Orchard were to be constituted as a company limited by guarantee or as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, the regulations for which are expected to promulgated in April 2011. No change was proposed until this happened, at which point the matter could be taken forward. Action: MH, BS It was suggested that the working party insurance cover [not TRDC’s public liability] be increased from £5m to £10m – EC to raise with TV – Orchard to offer to pay for the increase in premium. Action: EC

5. Tree orders and other orchard matters - 117 trees now planted. An additional 10 trees (2 apples, 6 cider apples and 2 damsons) are to be ordered from Keepers for delivery winter 2011. Also due next winter from Bernwode are 1 apple, 3 cherries and 5 damsons, plus 2 cherries to come from Dardilly. - Pruning - SK has completed all that is required for now – plums due in summer growing season - next full-scale pruning in February 2012. Action: SK - Fruiting – the first 24 trees could be allowed to produce about 6 apples each. - Disbudding – to be undertaken in June, after flowering in May Action: SK, AR

6. Speaker for AGM 2011 Suggestions were: Simon Parkes or Mary Berry - contact via Chorleywood Book Shop. Action: AR

7. Treasurer’s report & grants Income for 2010/11 is within £6 of £5,000 – so no more sponsorship cheques until 4 April, or we’ll have to register with the Charity Commission. Action: AR, SK iii) Grants received and spending to date: Currently £5,800 in bank, of which £1,000 is for the new Fairlie bench, £393 is for labels, both should be spent by the end of March 2011, £200 for 11

141 sponsored trees still to be bought and £200 for hosepipes, if not covered by a small grant. This leaves £4,000 of uncommitted cash for future costs. iv) Grants pending or to be applied for: Action: MH £178 to TRDC for 3 hosepipes, connectors and trolleys, to draw water from the existing supply. £247 to Tree Council – for 9 eligible apples.

8. AOB Village Day 9 th July – Orchard to share a pitch with FOCHE. Action: EC AGM 17 th May – SK to check if RBL room is available from 7.00pm. Action: SK

9. Date of next meeting Thursday, 14 th April at 10.00am at Alison’s house

19.6.11 14 April 2011

Present: Alison Rubens (AR) Chair AR; Eleanor Clarke EC; Callum Just (CJ); Michael Hyde (MH); Barbara Stunell (BS)

Apologies: Andrew Bungard (AB); Kay Fitzgerald (KF); Chris Kemp (CK); Sandra Kemp (SK)

1. Minutes of previous meeting (March 10 th 2011) Approved without amendment.

2. Matters arising Water supply – MH to submit a bid for 2 hoses, connectors and reels. AR to follow-up Kay’s e-mail to Doug Mackie and find out costs of installing standpipes. Action : AR, MH Number of trees confirmed at 138 in total. A spare key for the generator house has been cut and is kept at Alison’s house with key to field padlock. The third bench is now installed in the orchard. Decided it’s not appropriate to re-register as Charitable Incorporated Organisation. AR to check with Kay whether £500 grant is going to be received. Action : AR

3. AGM arrangements AR to ask Roger Dudley to speak at AGM. Action : AR AGM notices must be sent out by 25 April. AR to draft notice. Most sponsors to be e-mailed. Those without e-mail will have notices posted by hand. Laminated notices will be posted on the orchard notice board and in the library. Action : AR The AGM sequence will be: 1) Welcome and review of the year by Alison 2) Video 3) Formal business 4) Speaker 5) Q & A 6) Refreshments and mingling.

For the formal business of the AGM the executive committee members who have served 2 years will need to be re-nominated. AR to work out which resolutions are required and offer options for new members to join the committee. An Independent Examiner will need appointing. MH will present the Treasurer’s report and accounts. Agendas need printing out for attendees. Action: AR, MH

142 Need to find out whether we have a projector/speakers for AGM Action: AR, AB AGM date and details to be posted on website. Action: AB TBC: who will bring tea, coffee, milk, polystyrene cups, etc, planting grid, A frame.

4. Treasurer’s report To March 31 st 2011 total funds received = £4822, total payments = £4551. Surplus plus brought forward funds = £4950. Restricted and designated funds = £700. Therefore available funds = £4250 .

5. AOB Wednesday Weeding and Watering - Plan for mid-month watering parties on Wednesdays, June 15 th & July 13 th . Start time tbc. Possibility of a picnic afterwards or a drink at The Gate. AR to publicise to sponsors. Action: AR An approach has been made by Simone Tyson of www.chorleywoodmums.com asking whether there are any volunteering opportunities for them and their small children. EC to respond and will contact her re Apple Day. Brief discussion of potential sites for children’s play area in Chorleywood area which 3 Rivers DC has offered £10k towards. Action: EC Plan to make more progress on the Sponsors’ Book now all trees are allocated. Action : AR CJ to look at leaflets for Apple Day 2011 and amend if necessary. Action: CJ AR to speak to Parish re gate/access through cemetery to orchard. Action: AR

6. Date of next meeting Friday, 17 th June at 10.00am at Alison’s house. Next working party Saturday, June 4 th .

19.6.12 17 May 2011 (AGM)

Present: Alison Rubens (AR), Chris Kemp (CK), Sandra Kemp (SK), Michael Hyde (MH), Barbara Stunell (BS), Eleanor Clarke (EC), Callum Just (CJ), Andrew Bungard (AB) and others whose names are recorded in the attendance book.

1. Introduction and Introduction AR welcomed those present. Apologies had been received from a number of members. AR introduced the committee. 2. Approval of Minutes of the AGM held 18 May 2010 BS read the minutes of the AGM 2010. Greg Hill proposed acceptance. Les Dacre seconded. Minutes approved.

3. Executive Committee’s Report AR reported that the first 48 trees have continued to be watered and tended. There are now 117. Many sponsors planted their own trees. AR was pleased to see many people at the AGM who helped at the working parties. As there has been no substantial rain since April watering had started. One tree died this year – a replacement for a previous tree that died, so 99% survival rate. The latest batch of trees planted had all been specially grafted for Chorleywood Community Orchard (CCO) by East of England Apples and Orchards Project and were traditional Hertfordshire varieties, eg, Hitchin Pippin. A line of crab apples has been planted and the orchard now has plums, cherries and damsons. Space has been found to increase the number of trees to 138 – 10 more than planned. Later this year 6 cider apples will be planted, e.g. Stoke Red and Chisel Jersey. AR halted the defoliation of 1 tree last year when she spotted 7 huge Eyed Hawk-Moth caterpillars. She re- homed them to a tree in her own orchard. Snowdrops have been planted along the

143 top boundary, adjacent to Beaumont Care Home. At last year’s Apple Day the sponsors of the trees bearing the 2 apples that were accidentally allowed to grow were presented with their harvest; a Lane’s Prince Albert and an Ashmead’s Kernel. A Herts CC grant (Chris Hayward) of £1200 went toward purchase of 2 benches and a 3 rd bench from a Grassroots grant was recently installed. Working parties have been well-attended. They have been enjoyable, sociable and not too onerous – usually only 2 hours. Working parties are the first Saturday of the month. Mid-week working parties have been arranged for Wednesdays, June 15 th and July 13 th at 7.00pm. AR particularly pleased with interest from Scouts, Cubs, and Guides; also all 3 local primary schools are tree sponsors. The 2 nd Apple Day in October 2010 was a great success. Apples were donated by the Kemps and other attendees. A small profit was made from sales of bottled juice. Apple Day included tastings, juicing, display of varieties, activities and a competition for the longest peel. Thanks were extended to AB for the website. Permanent labels have been purchased for the trees showing the grid reference, fruit and tree variety. These are currently being attached. Future events were listed as: Village Day, Saturday, July 9 th – a stall shared with Friends of Chorleywood House Estate, 12 – 4pm. Apple Day, Saturday, October 1 st , 11.00am – 3.00pm. Michael Clarke will attend again and identify any apples. All encouraged to bring apples to Apple Day. Thanks were extended to the Committee, Tim Venner, Friends of Chorleywood House Estate Three Rivers District Council (TRDC) and the Parish Council, especially for the water supply to the orchard and all members for their hard work planting and maintaining trees.

4. Treasurer’s Report and Accounts MH presented the accounts, which are in a sound position. At March 31 st 2011 there was £4950 at the bank, of which £4250 is available for maintenance and ongoing costs and £700 in restricted and designated funds. Monies have been raised through sponsorships, donations and grants. Receipts were £4822 and expenditure £4551. Most Benefactors and Patrons were present and were thanked for their generosity. The Herts Community Foundation’s Grassroots programme was mentioned for being helpful and amenable in providing funding for a 3 rd bench and other costs. The report was independently examined by Paul Anders. CCO now has charitable status from HMRC, although this only dates from the last AGM when the amended constitution was adopted. All Gift Aid requests prior to May 2010 will not be valid. MH invited anyone concerned about this to let him know. Margaret Jarrett proposed acceptance of the accounts. Anthony Boswell seconded. Approved unanimously.

5. Appointment of Independent Examiner Paul Anders offered to be Independent Examiner. AR proposed. MH seconded. Approved unanimously.

6. Election of Executive Committee AR asked if anyone wanted to join the committee. Nobody volunteered. AR, MH, CK, SK, CJ and Kay Fitzgerald were proposed and re-elected. Les Dacre proposed. Jackie Khara seconded - approved. BS and AB do not need re-electing until 2012.

7. Any other business i. Are there plans for a beehive to be installed in the orchard?

144 AR: TRDC are reluctant because of Health & Safety. EC has offered to have a hive in her garden nearby. We will reconsider a hive in the orchard next year. It is not too necessary at the moment as pollination is not a priority. ii. Is it possible to put the tree planting plan on the noticeboard and website? AR: It is difficult but we will try to scan it. It may be too large for the noticeboard. iii. Do labels have sponsors’ names on them? AR: They have a grid reference on them so information can be found on the plan. iv. Is the list of sponsors on the website? AR: No. We think people may be reluctant to have their names on a website. By using the grid reference and tree plan you can see who the sponsor is. v. Will sponsors be taught how to prune when the trees need pruning? AR: We hope to have some pruning workshops later in the year. At the moment SK and CK have been doing the pruning. vi. Can a sponsor water their tree whenever they want? AR: Yes, you can not overwater young trees. There is a bucket hidden near the boundary with the cemetery. Do not feed though as this is discouraged by the CMS grassland management plan for the field. vii. Who keeps the water troughs filled? AR: The committee does. viii. Is there any chance of having water plumbed to the site? AR: We have asked TRDC but it would be too expensive at the moment. ix. Who cuts the grass in the orchard? AR: TRDC cuts it once a year in September. In the period in-between wavy trails are cut by Tim Venner.

Formal business ended at 8.40. AR then introduced a video from a National Trust workshop about the joys of planting an orchard.

145 19.7 Appendix 7: Byelaws for the Local Nature Reserve

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19.8 Additional Appendices

19.8.1 Grounds Maintenance Contract 19.8.2 Risk Assessments 19.8.3 Selection of press coverage/publicity relating to the Local Nature Reserve 19.8.4 Chorleywood House Estate Tree Survey 2011/12

Should you wish to view the additional appendices please contact Three Rivers District Council.

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