Harpenden Town Council

Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve Management Plan 2017 - 2022

Contents

INTRODUCTION ...... 5

Harpenden Town Council ...... 5

Batford Springs Volunteers ...... 5

Site Description ...... 7

Upper Lea Catchment Partnership ...... 8

Historical Context ...... 8

Habitats...... 9

Buildings ...... 10

Budgets ...... 10

Management Plan – Key Themes ...... 11

Management Plan – Key Development Projects ...... 12

AN ACCESSIBLE PLACE ...... 13

Getting to and around the site ...... 12

Accessing infromation on-site ...... 13

Dog walkers ...... 13

Key actions ...... 14

HEALTHY, SAFE AND SECURE ...... 16

Personal Safety ...... 16

Policing ...... 16

Dog Fouling ...... 16

Water Safety ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 16

Tree Safety ...... 16

Key Actions ...... 18

CLEAN AND WELL MAINTAINED ...... 19

Grounds Maintenance ...... 19

Key Actions ...... 19

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY ...... 20 2

Energy and natural resources ...... 20

Peat and pesticides ...... 20

Removal of non-native invasive species ...... 19

Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust ...... 20

Waste Management ...... 21

Monitoring and surveying...... 21

Key Actions ...... 22

CONSERVATION AND HERITAGE ...... 23

Restoration of the freshwater springs ...... 24

Restoration of the springs to their full capacity ...... 24

Repair of collapses in the stream beds ...... 24

The removal of silt in the stream bed and bank clearance works ...... 24

Thinning/removal of trees and overhanging branches ...... 25

Management of the wet woodland ...... 25

Management of the meadows ...... 26

Creation of a new reed fen habitat ...... 27

Key Actions ...... 28

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ...... 30

Batford Springs Volunteers ...... 30

Events ...... 30

Key Actions ...... 30

MARKETING AND PROMOTION ...... 31

Leaflet ...... 31

Website ...... 31

Social media ...... 32

Forum ...... 32

Posters...... 32

Key Actions ...... 32

APPENDIX A - HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE ...... 34 3

Line of reporting to Town Clerk ...... 34

Business & Community Services function ...... 35

Finance & Internal Operations Function ...... 36

Environment Committee Terms of Reference ...... 37

APPENDIX B – BATFORD SPRINGS VOLUNTEERS CONSTITUTION ...... 38

APPENDIX C – JOHN O’CONNER ST ALBANS CONTRACT ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE ...... 31

APPENDIX D – TARGETS, FACTORS AND SPECIFICATION FOR MANAGEMENT OF THE KEY FEATURES ...... 33

APPENDIX E – ADDITIONAL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS……………………… 38

Introduction

Harpenden Town Council recognises its responsibility to manage Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and the challenges this can present. Batford Springs is a 15 acre site that was designated a local nature reserve for the existence of the rare spring-fed freshwater habitat as well as ancient meadow, reedbed and wet woodland. The overall aim of the Management Plan is to guide any action taken to ensure the nature reserve continues to thrive and be enjoyed by a variety of users.

Harpenden Town Council

Harpenden Town Council was created in 1974 following the re-organisation of local government and the disbanding of Harpenden Urban District Council. Harpenden is the largest parish in the St Albans District with a population of over 30,000 represented by 16 Councillors.

The Town Clerk leads the work of the council alongside a team of 14 officers. This Town Council is split into three functions which collectively implement the Council’s business plan, and policies which comply with government legislation and our statutory duties.

Matters concerning Batford Springs Nature Reserve are overseen by the Town Council’s Environment Committee. This committee meets 6 times a year and includes seven Town Councillors.

Further details of the Town Council functions and our organisational chart can be found in Appendix A.

Batford Springs Volunteers

The Batford Springs Volunteers (formally the Upper Lea Valley Group - ULVG), maintain and manage the majority of the reserve on behalf of the Town Council. The ULVG was founded in 1972 to create the first section of what later became the long distance path along the River Lea. It performed major works in its early years, including renovation of weirs and sluices, creation of stepping stones and building of pedestrian bridges.

In 2010, the ULVG changed its name to become the Batford Springs Volunteers (BSV), which flourished as an active conservation group, working to conserve and preserve the habitats and species on the nature reserve. Further details of the group’s constitution can be viewed in Appendix B.

The Batford Spring Volunteers wrote a 10-year management plan, 2013-2022, which has been incorporated into this document and the group continues to drive the conservation management and site improvement works on behalf of the Council.

The Batford Springs Volunteers run an open to all work party at the reserve on the first Sunday of every month. Work objectives for these sessions are set at a monthly planning meeting that is attended by Members of the Batford Springs Volunteer Management Committee.

The volunteers undertake routine maintenance and species recording. The work can include special projects such as strengthening the river bank, laying hedges, installing bird boxes and creating new paths.

Whenever practical, the majority of the conservation and maintenance work is undertaken by the BSV team. However, contractors are also used where specialist skills and equipment are required.

The Batford Spring Volunteers have a panel of advisors who are contacted and met with on an ad hoc basis. Members of the Advisory panel include:

 Ian Denholm (Botanist, Botanical Society of the Britain & Ireland)  Tim Hill (Conservation Manager, Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust)  Agneta Burton (Botanist, formally working at the University of Hertfordshire)  Helen Coleman (Technical information)  John Davies (Ornithologist)  Trevor James (Naturalist, British Naturalist Association)  Lauren Billington (Environment Agency)

Site Description

Harpenden is situated in north Hertfordshire between the city of St Albans and Luton. The reserve lies at the northern end of Station Road (B652), between Station Road and the Lower Luton Road and stretches all the way to the junction of Piggottshill Hill and Marquis Lane. The boundary of the reserve is shown in orange in the map above.

Batford Springs LNR is in an urban environment and is almost entirely surrounded by housing and roads. One public footpath, number 24, crosses the site and a children’s play area is located in the central section. There are at least 6 schools within a 500m distance.

In the centre of the reserve are two sets of stepping stones, one crossing a chalk stream and the other the river. The original earth bank that once held back the mill pond now has a modern sluice gate at its centre. Towards the southern end of the reserve there is an old ford across the river.

The River Lea with its riverside walk flows through the site. Harpenden Town Council is considered the riparian landowner at various points throughout the reserve and as such has a responsibility to protect and improve the water course for the benefit of future generations. The Town Council uses the Environment Agency document ‘Living on the Edge’ as a guide to the rights and responsibilities in respect of the River Lea across the site. 7

Upper Lea Catchment Partnership

A Catchment Based Approach to river management was piloted by Defra in 2012 and launched nationally in 2013. The aim was to establish catchment partnerships formed of local people, landowners and statutory bodies that work collectively across all river catchments in England.

The River Lea through Batford Springs LNR is part of the Upper Lea Catchment. A partnership for this region was formed in 2014 and meets three times a year to review management progress along the Lea and discuss future projects; more informal meetings take place more regularly. Representatives from both Batford Springs Volunteers and Harpenden Town Council attend these meetings and are committed to working to improve the Upper Lea for people and for wildlife.

Projects that the partnership are working towards can be viewed on the partnership website - www.riverleacatchment.org.uk/index.php/upper-lea-home

Historical Context

Batford Springs LNR is based on a former watercress farm. In 1830 five boreholes were drilled to provide a constant flow of water from the aquifer below to feed the farm. The resulting chalk stream is a rarity, with only 200 in the world. The streams were last commercially farmed in 1950.

The land was originally owned by Harpenden Urban District Council and then in 1974 came under the newly created St Albans District Council. In 2012, Batford Springs LNR was devolved back from the District Council into the ownership of Harpenden Town Council.

In January 2015, Harpenden Town Council purchased Marquis Meadow, a 5 acre field adjacent to the reserve. In 2016, this new piece of land was formally included

within the reserve and increased the size of the LNR by 50%, adding around half a kilometre of river bank.

Habitats

There are a number distinct and different wildlife habitats on the reserve:

 Freshwater springs, streams and ponds, a legacy from the watercress farm. This comparatively rare habitat supports a variety of flora and fauna which thrives in the constant temperature of the pure, cool spring water.  Ancient meadow, an endangered and declining habitat. In former times both banks of the Lea at this location would have been pasture.  Reedbed, in rapid decline in Hertfordshire.  Damp woodland, a relatively rare habitat capable of supporting a wide range of shade and water loving flora and fauna.

Buildings

The Batford Springs Volunteers (BSV) have a simple one story building along Lower Luton Road that is used as the headquarters of the organisation. In December 2013, a tree fell on the roof of the building and the building was subsequently condemned. 9

Following discussions with the owners, St. Albans District Council, it was agreed to transfer the asset to Harpenden Town Council.

It is proposed that the existing building will be demolished and a new purpose built one be developed in its place. Harpenden Town Council wish to provide a modern, bespoke facility for the Batford Springs Volunteers that will enable the volunteers to continue their work and support future volunteers, in addition to supporting educational facilities.

Plans for the new building are that it would be located in a similar position to the existing one although it will extend further back into the site. It will remain a single story so that it fits comfortably within the street scene and maintains the views into the nature reserve beyond the houses on the other side of the road.

A meeting room will be located at the front of the building which will provide direct access and views on to the street creating a shop front for the work undertaken by volunteers. A small kitchen area, accessible WC, boot room and an internal store will also be provided.

It is hoped that planning permissions will be in place and work completed by September 2017. A temporary storage unit is housing tools and equipment belonging to BSV’s until the building is finished.

Budgets

All budgets are approved at the relevant Council Committee meeting.

Draft BSLNR Actual Budget budget 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018

Repairs and Maintenance 2,500 2,500 2,500 Tree Works 1,000 1,000 1,000 BSV - SLA 1,000 1,500 1,500 Marquis Lane – Extension works 0 3,800 3,800

Net Expenditure 4,500 8,800 8,800

In addition to the budget set out before, the Town Council also utilises other general budgets to support the management of the reserve. This includes:

 Tree works met from the Commons and Greens tree budget 2015/2016.  Budgets for capital projects such as the HQ build.  Cost for new path in Marquis Meadow met through a Parish Paths Partnership grant and a reserves budget.

The Batford Springs Volunteers are also key in raising funds for works. So far this year, they have successfully been awarded £2K from Aviva to trial repair some of the 10

collapsed stream beds along the chalk stream. In addition, they receive an annual donation of £1K from a local commercial organisation.

Management Plan - Key Themes

The sections below set out the key themes that form the objectives for Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve. Under each theme are set out the actions that will be undertaken to maintain and develop it further over the next 4 years. The objectives and actions will be reviewed and refreshed each year. All actions are set out in the action plan in Appendix D.

The key themes are:

1. An Accessible Place 2. Healthy, Safe and Secure 3. Clean and well-maintained 4. Sustainable Environment 5. Conservation and Heritage 6. Community Involvement

In delivering this management plan Harpenden Town Council works closely with key partners such as Batford Springs Volunteers, The Environment Agency and Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.

QuickTime™ and a decompressor are needed to see this picture.

Management Plan – Key Development Projects

There are several key development projects proposed for the nature reserve over the next 3 years.

The following future activity is referenced throughout the management plan and is listed here in order of priority and proposed completion date.

 A new HQ building for the Batford Springs Volunteers (p10 – Sep 2017)  Restoration of the chalk stream habitat (p24-27, April 2018)  Creation of a reedfen habitat (p29-30, April 2018)  Creation of a visitor boardwalk in the central wet woodland (p15, April 2019)  Design and installation of new interpretation boards (p15, Sep 2019)  An all-weather all ability surface applied to existing un-surfaced paths (p14, April 2020)

It is estimated that the total cost for delivering these projects will be £150k. Money for development projects is raised through Town Council budgets and by the Batford Springs Volunteers through grants, donations and sponsorship. In some instances, organisations like Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust may also apply for grant funding on behalf of the reserve. Funding for each specific project is detailed in Appendix D.

An Accessible Place

We will ensure that the nature reserve is accessible and welcoming to all potential visitors, improving the overall quality of the reserve and opening up access to all.

Getting to and around the site

The reserve is open to the public at all times.

Whether travelling by road, rail, bus, bicycle or on foot, Batford Springs LNR is accessible by all methods. There is a free public car park at the junction of Marquis Lane and Station Road and further parking along Marquis Lane and Lower Luton Road. The train station is a 20 minute walk away and buses 620, 366, and 636 pass and stop around the reserve.

There are numerous entrances on to the site from Station Road, Lower Luton Road, Crabtree Lane and Marquis Lane.

In January 2015, the Batford Springs LNR was extended with the purchase of land in Marquis Lane. This land runs from the corner of Marquis Lane, eastwards to the bottom of Piggotshill Lane. There was no defined access through the meadow, with people creating their own path along the course of the river and the long grass. A fully accessible all-weather path and two timber mobility kissing gates have now been installed to direct foot fall.

Further prepared pathways can be found by the children’s play area and on the west to east stretch of footpath 24, however, all other paths are unsurfaced and rough terrain. It is proposed that all-weather surfacing be applied on these unsurfaced areas over the next few years.

All existing pathways and bridges are checked weekly by the HTC Maintenance Team.

In addition to improving access on existing pathways it is proposed to build a 250m raised boardwalk from the central footbridge through an area of damp woodland in the middle of the reserve. The boardwalk would connect back to the meadow on the 13

north of the reserve via a bridge. This central section of damp woodland is not currently accessible so the boardwalk will enable visitors to enjoy an additional habitat while offering new views of the River Lea and the chalk stream. The design and route of this boardwalk will be such to minimise the impact on local wildlife. Design features will include:

 A scrub divide between the chalk stream edge and the boardwalk  The boardwalk will be raised to allow passage for wildlife and water underneath.  An integrated handrail with mesh on the lower half will contain people and dogs while on the boardwalk  A non-meandering route through the section to allow refuge for wildlife  Maintaining a distance greater than 8m from the bank of the river  Gates in the rail system are required to allow BSV and contractors access into the wet woodland.

Accessing information on-site

There is one notice board on Station Road at the top of the public footpath. This board displays the following information:  Contact details for the Town Council and local Police Safer Neighbourhood Teams.  Posters advertising local events and activities.  Information on getting involved with volunteering.

There are currently 6 information boards around half of the site (excluding Marquis Meadow) that require updating to include the additional 5 acres of land purchased in 2015.

Dog walkers

Dogs and their owners are welcome on the reserve under the following conditions:  Dogs should be kept under control at all times. If the park is busy or children are playing, we encourage dog owners to keep dogs on a lead  All dog faeces should be disposed of in the dog litter bags provided and deposited in the dog litter bins  Dogs should be discouraged from entering the pond.

There are five dog bins located across the reserve:  On Marquis Lane at the top of footpath 24, near Station Road  On footpath 24 by the picnic tables  At the end of footpath 24 at Crabtree Lane.  By the kissing gate at the entrance on to the reserve from All Saints Church, Station Road.  Entrance on to Marquis Meadow at the bottom of Piggotshill Lane.

All of these bins are emptied on Mondays and Fridays by grounds maintenance contractors.

Key Actions

 Regularly update information on the notice board (weekly)  Regularly inspect infrastructure including bridges and paths (weekly)  Empty bins (dog bins on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays)  Design and install new interpretation boards providing information about the site (by September 2019)  Creation of a visitor boardwalk in the central wooded area (complete by April 2019)  Apply an all-weather, all ability surface on all existing unsurfaced paths (complete by April 2020)

Healthy, Safe and Secure

We will work with our employees, stakeholders, volunteers and contractors in developing work practices, facilities and action that promote safety for all in and around Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve.

The management of H&S across the site relies upon numerous processes and procedures, including the following:

 Risk and COSHH assessments  Safety training details of staff (including contractors)  Accident or near miss reporting systems  Safety inspections  Testing of equipment for vibration related issues  PAT testing of electrical equipment  Independent audit and inspection

Health and Safety is given a very high priority in all of our open spaces and is formalised through the Town Council’s Risk Management Strategy which includes consideration of matters on Batford Springs LNR.

The safety of the volunteers, staff and public is paramount. Council officers complete risk assessments which are regularly updated and qualified personnel carry out safety audits and inspections at regular intervals such as weekly checks on the infrastructure on the reserve.

The Batford Springs Volunteers are covered by their own pubic liability insurance to carry out practical management tasks on site. All of their activities are thoroughly risk assessed, copies of which are made available to the town council on request.

Personal Safety

The park is patrolled at least once a day by either council staff or grounds maintenance contractors and in all weathers by foot. Council staff are easily recognisable by means of a staff uniform and are first aid trained. Any issues identified during the patrols such as issues with health and safety or anti-social behaviour are reported to the relevant authority.

Policing

The Town Council works closely with the local Neighbourhood Police Team who patrol through Batford Springs LNR weekly. Regular meetings are held with the Neighbourhood Sergeant to discuss any issues arising in Harpenden such as people creating disturbance, unauthorised vehicles, special community events etc.

Contact numbers for the Town Council, groundworks contractors and local police are displayed on a notice board on Station Road.

Dog Fouling

The Town Council promotes responsible dog ownership and control. Dog owners are encouraged to pick up after their dog in the nature reserve. The Town Council provide dog litter bins across the reserve.

Water safety

In February 2017, RoSPA conducted a Water Safety Review on Batford Springs LNR by the request of the council. The inspection highlighted an increased risk in the middle sections of the reserve from the central bridge downstream to the stepping stones. This is due to the encroachment of people to the waterside and the nature of the structures present such as the footbridge and stepping stones. A set of 10 recommendations have been made which are ranked from high to medium priority. All recommendations will be considered and incorporated into work programmes from July 2017 onwards.

Two signs warning of ‘dangerous currents’ and throw lines are in place either side of the weir. These are inspected by the HTC Maintenance Team on a weekly basis.

Tree Safety

Batford Springs LNR is home to a variety of tree species. There are no trees with Tree Preservation Orders on the reserve.

Any tree work carried out must be in accordance with the Harpenden Town Council Tree Policy. It should be noted that tree work will generally not be carried out for reasons such as the following:

 Loss of light, TV reception or views due to growing trees within the reserve. 17

 Natural occurrences that do not pose a health and safety risk such as falling leaves, fruit, flowers, bird droppings or honeydew  Branches overhanging a property, unless they pose a health and safety risk.

A full health and safety inspection of all the trees on the reserve is scheduled for March 2017. This inspection will include re-tagging of all trees for ease of identification, digital plotting on to a map and a report of any necessary 1, 2 or 3 priority works.

Key Actions

 Review key risk assessments (annually)  Review key policies: pesticides, COSSH and tree policy (annually).  Regular Joint Agency Group meetings (quarterly)  Regular Corporate Risk Management meetings (quarterly)  Incorporate RoSPA recommendations into work programmes (by July 2017)  Monitor condition of infrastructure such as seats, benches, paths, posts, safety features and railings (weekly)

Clean and Well Maintained

We will work to ensure that the nature reserve is litter free and the recreational grass is well maintained.

Grounds Maintenance

Harpenden Town Council in partnership with St Albans District Council and Sandridge Parish Council employs a CHAS accredited (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) groundwork contractor, John O’Conner, to undertake the majority of work in the Town’s green spaces (See Appendix C for contract organisational structure).

The groundwork contractors are recognisable by means of a uniform/PPE wear and ID badges. Vehicles are all clearly branded.

Two full time employees help keep Batford Springs LNR looking in good order. Monthly meetings are held with representatives from all the councils plus the contract managers and supervisors to discuss current work and any outstanding or new items. A dedicated customer care line is also available for members of the public to use to report any queries about the aspect of grounds maintenance. The telephone number is clearly displayed on the notice board in the entrance to the park.

Key Actions

 Litter picking – performance item. The Grounds Maintenance Team are responsible for litter picking as and when required and must review daily.  Keep recreational grass short – performance item. The Grounds Maintenance Team are responsible for cutting the grass as and when required and must review bi-weekly.  Strim around pathways and benches (once every two weeks in the growing season)  Empty the litter and dog bins (three times a week in the winter months/daily in the summer)  Regular meetings with the grounds maintenance contractor (monthly)

Environmental Sustainability

The Council is committed to promoting sustainable policies that strive to improve Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve and conserve energy and natural resources where possible.

Energy and natural resources

As part of their contract with the Town Council, the groundworks contractors have a commitment to;  Make the most efficient use of energy  Source alternative energy supplies where possible  Minimise pollution  Avoid waste and promote conservation, reuse and recycling of resources  Avoid the purchase of tropical hardwoods and give preference to Forest Stewardship Council trademark products  Promote environmental awareness amongst staff, suppliers and sub- contractors  Promote the purchase of goods and services locally produced and ‘environmentally friendly’ where possible

John O’Conner record and review all energy used in its buildings annually and compares these results with previous years to allow for budget setting for the following year. The supply of electricity is sought from a green provider and a small wind turbine scheme is being investigated for use at the St Albans depot.

All the contractors’ vehicles run on greener diesel reducing vehicles sulphur emissions by 90%.

Peat and pesticides

The Town Council is committed to using a peat-reduced mix (65% peat) and strives to further reduce the peat content in years to come.

The Town Council refrains from using pesticides unless considered absolutely necessary and all criteria set out in the Pesticide Policy are met. The Maintenance Officer is both PA1 and PA6 qualified. The Town Council’s Pesticide Policy can be viewed as a supporting document to the management plan.

Removal of non-native invasive species

Removal of all non-native invasive species on site is done so in accordance with the Town Council Policy. Control of wetland non-native species follows the guidance set out by the Environment Agency in 2010 - Managing invasive non-native plants in or near fresh water. This includes specific guidance on Japanese Knotweed, Giant Hogweed and Himalayan Balsam. Russian Comfrey is also a major problem on the reserve. The Town Council’s policy can be viewed as a supporting document to the management plan.

Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust

Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust (HMWT) is part of the national movement of 47 county Wildlife Trusts across the United Kingdom. With 44 nature reserves covering 1,900 acres, from beautiful woodlands and wetlands to rare patches of heath and orchard. HMWT support and advise BSV and the Town Council on the management of habitats on the reserve to promote the best outcome for local wildlife.

From April 2017 onwards, the Town Council will have a dedicated People and Wildlife Officer working 3 days a week who will help to manage, protect and improve areas to benefit local wildlife.

Waste Management

The groundwork contractors and Town Council use bin bags made from 100% recycled material.

All green waste arisings from shrub prunings and hedge cuttings are chipped, composted down locally, taken to an external recycling plant or burnt on site.

The Town Council regularly hires skips to store mixed waste collected from general everyday activities or specific events. The skip company is a fully licenced (Environment Agency) waste carrier. All waste goes to Bishops Waste Transfer station in Hemel Hempstead where they are achieving an 87% recovery rate.

Monitoring and surveying

Biological surveying is essential for supporting and directing future management plans.

Species that are currently being monitored by BSV include:

 Butterflies. Weekly surveys are carried out by volunteers over a 26 week period from April to October. Results to Butterfly Conservation.  Riverfly monitoring in the River Lea carried out by the volunteers. Results to Herts Environmental Record Centre (HERC).  Bi-annual flora survey conducted by BSV. Results to HERC.  Lichens every 2 years. Results to HERC.  Bird surveys monthly by the local RSPB bird group. Results to HERC.

Species to consider monitoring:

 Bats – a priority given the need for tree management work.

 Invertebrates – butterflies, moths, beetles, grasshoppers and crickets. Of particular interest would be those associated with the water and with the newly acquired Marquis Meadow. In addition, monitoring the aquatic invertebrates in the chalk stream.

 Small mammals – Rodentia and Insectivora. It would be useful to give baseline information about the small mammals using the reserve, covering all habitat areas on the site.

Key Actions

 Scrub clearance works carried out between October to March, unless absolutely necessary, to avoid the breeding season (BSV work parties).  Review key policies: pesticides, management of non-native invasive species (annually)  Regularly meet grounds maintenance contractor  Set up a schedule of surveying to gather information about flora/fauna found on the reserve (July 2017)  Seek advice and guidance from Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust to manage, protect and improve areas to benefit local wildlife.

Conservation and Heritage

The Council aims to protect, conserve and where appropriate enhance the historic aspects of the nature reserve and to take account of distinctive histories of its component parts.

The following table lists the important features of Batford Springs LNR and identifies the key drivers for management. BSV are key in providing the vision for and implementation of this aspect of the site’s management.

Important feature Why? Chalk stream The prime habitat on the reserve is the network of six functioning freshwater springs feeding some 500m of streams. In 1950 the farms ceased production and for two decades the site was totally abandoned. A period of restoration followed but no specific restoration work was carried out on the springs and streams. As a result, the stream bed is compromised in various locations, the channel is overshadowed by vegetation and a large amount of silt has built up on the stream bed. Full restoration of the springs and streams is now needed to create an adequate and constant flow of fresh water along the network.

Freshwater springs and streams are a rare and diminishing habitat. Only 120 miles exist in the world and 80% of these are in England. The complex at Batford is of particular interest in that virtually no surface water feeds into the streams.

Key species: a range of flora and fauna, namely aquatic invertebrates, amphibians and reptiles many of which are intolerant to pollutants.

Wet woodland Wet woodland provides vital cover and breeding areas for birds, amphibians and reptiles and is one of the rarest woodland habitats in the UK.

Such habitat may get overtaken by trees so it is necessary to control the spread of wet woodland and create structural diversity.

A key driver for management will be to open up the area of damp woodland to visitors by means of a 250m boardwalk.

Key species: extremely rich in insects supporting a large number of species such as beetle. Dead wood associated with wet woodland provides a specialist habitat not found in dry woodland. Meadow In former times both banks of the River Lea at this site would have been pasture. There were five active water mills between East Hyde and Wheathampstead. The main activity

in the valley was growing cereals to provide the staple food – bread. Now two largish stretches of meadow exist.

Management by mowing is essential to maintain the structure, balance and diversity in grassland. Without management, grassland becomes course and rank, loses both diversity and interest and will eventually turn to scrub or woodland.

The character and composition of the meadows will continue to change with time. Eventually a relatively stable community will develop, the balance of which will reflect management.

All the meadows will be managed with a mid-summer haycut with all arisings removed after cutting. An autumn mow may also be applied in Marquis Meadow to cut any regrowth however all mowing regimes will be reviewed based on surveys of the plant communities.

Key species: Insects – pollinators, grasshoppers, crickets and wildflowers. Reedbed Reedbeds are among the most important habitats for birds in the UK. They support species of warbler, waders and wildfowl for breeding in spring and roosting in winter. Reedbeds are also great for invertebrates such as damselflies and dragonflies. Noctules and daubentons frequent reedbeds for feeding during the summer months.

Management of the reedbed is required to prevent over- shading and invasive growth of reeds.

Key species: wading birds, waterfowl, warblers and invertebrates.

Restoration of the freshwater springs and streams

The network of freshwater stream is shown as a dashed line in the map before.

The work can be divided into four elements:  The restoration of the springs to their full capacity  The repair of collapses in the stream beds  The removal of accumulated silt and debris in stream beds  Removal of unsuitable vegetation on stream beds and banks.  The thinning/removal of overhead branches and trees along the stream banks.

The restoration of the springs to their full capacity

Through practical research and discussion with watercress farmers it was determined that the water flow from all the springs was below what would be normal for a 10cm diameter pipe sunk 30m into a chalk aquifer. Output was gauged around 1l/s per spring.

A trial clearance of one spring by a qualified contractor displaced considerable quantities of stone, silt and chalk powder and evidence of a deliberate attempt to restrict the flow. After the procedure the water flow was estimated at 3 litres/sec, a level almost commensurate with watercress development.

An attempt to clear another borehole revealed that the pipe was compromised and had cracks along the funnel. The three remaining boreholes could not be located at all under a thick layer of mud and silt.

In order to restore flow into the channels the current thinking is to drill at least 2 new boreholes upstream in the network.

Before this is progressed a ‘Borehole Point Prognosis’ and ‘Groundwater Abstraction Module’ have been requested from the British Geological Survey. These surveys will provide an evaluation of the expected geological sequence beneath the chalk streams to a depth appropriate for the pipe. In addition, the reports will evaluate the potential of the aquifer in terms of groundwater yields, water levels and groundwater quality to inform the best design and location for new boreholes. These reports will be complete by the end of March 2017.

The repair of collapses in the stream beds

The collapses are in the form of a mini sinkhole full of liquid mud up to 1m deep. Their existence creates a number of undesirable problems.  They allow spring water to soak into the ground  They form a barrier for free movement of life in the stream.  Plants which flourish in the bed cannot establish themselves in a collapsed section.  A collapsed section is not necessarily obvious and is thus a serious hazard for volunteers working on stream conservation.

The repair would involve removing the silt and filling the trenches with stones, compacting and dressing with gravel.

The removal of silt in the stream beds and bank clearance works.

With the springs running on low power for a long time there is considerable amount of silt in most of the streams. By improving the water flow some of this will be naturally carried away to the outflow. In some areas there will have to be physical intervention to clear the build-up and also to fully remove invasive weeds and unsuitable species which have taken root. With the springs restored and the stream bed repaired it is hoped that a proportion of this work can be undertaken by volunteer labour.

Thinning/removal of trees and overhanging branches.

Along the majority of the chalk stream network the bank is overpopulated with trees with large portions of the stream are in permanent shade. This promotes a community composition of shade-tolerant species and results in a lot of debris falling into the channel. In order to maximise biodiversity and improve conditions in the channel, management will try to create dappled sunlight conditions of a ratio of 70% open, 30% dappled sunlight. This will be achieved through a combination of thinning and tree removal.

Management of the wet woodland

Wet woodland shaded on the map.

A wet woodland should be allowed to regenerate naturally, and as far as possible, should be a wild, natural and dynamic wetland system that is self-regulating. Ideally they should require minimum human management or intervention.

It is important to try and retain as diverse a habitat as possible in order to meet the needs of larval and adult stages of invertebrates. This means a diversity in age of trees and openings in the canopy that will provide glades where plants can flower. Some coppicing may be necessary to achieve a more diverse woodland structure and to clear a path for the boardwalk. Trees in the wet woodland will be managed according to the Town Council’s tree policy and surveyed every 5 years.

Deadwood, both fallen and standing of all sizes, should be conserved and retained as it provides habitat for some of the UKs rarest invertebrate species.

On-going management of the scrub layer in particular nettles will ensure open areas are retained and a greater diversity of ground flora can establish.

Management of the meadows

Meadow areas shaded on the map

Marquis Meadow

The grassland will be managed by a cutting regime: two cuts initially, in late July and the other at the end of November (weather depending) with cuttings removed to reduce vigour of and seeding of false oat grass and thistles. After two years this will be reviewed to assess the effect on species richness of the vegetation and consider whether the summer cut could be later to allow for a longer flowering period and less impact on the invertebrate interest of the site.

There are several large anthills on the site which need to be avoided when cutting to prevent both damage to them and machinery. Most of these are concentrated in the area between the central dividing bank and western hedgerow and this area will be cut infrequently for the benefit of invertebrates, while preventing the succession of scrub.

Ragwort and tree saplings can be controlled by hand pulling/cutting. Himalayan Balsam will be removed along the bank of the river, according to the Town Council’s policy on the Removal of Non-Native Invasive Species. 27

Lower Luton Road meadow plots

In 2016, areas of previous amenity grass either side of Footpath 24, close to Lower Luton Road were left uncut until the end of August and all the arisings taken away. The aim was to generate new habitats comprising a mixture of grasses and broad- leaved herbaceous species to support a variety of wildlife.

Plant species present on these plots were surveyed during the summer, and as expected after several years of intensive mowing the number of species is limited, however, it is expected that these plots will colonise naturally over time. After two years the annual cut will be reviewed to assess the effect on species richness of the vegetation.

Station Road meadow area

The grassland will be managed by a cutting regime: one cut in late July with cuttings removed. After two years this will be reviewed to assess the effect on species richness of the vegetation. Tree saplings will be controlled by hand cutting.

Creation of a new reed fen habitat

The word fen is described somewhere that is between reedbeds and wet meadows or wet woodland, where the water table is close to or above the surface for much of the year. The vegetation can contain reed, but is generally shorter than in reedbeds and includes grasses and sedges, giving views across the landscape. Fen contains plant species that can provide abundant colour in summer.

There is no true reedfen on the reserve as the topographical conditions are not met. It is proposed to restore an overgrown and neglected area of semi-marsh land by removing invasive species and shaping the area into a depression to support a reed fen habitat.

This project will help increase the diversity of habitats and species on the reserve.

Ongoing habitat management

By far the most time consuming task for BSV is dealing with scrub encroachment; ongoing scrub clearance and removal of non-native invasive species. This ensures the growth of habitat specific species in all habitats found on the reserve and helps to maintain boundaries and successional points between habitats. The amount of work required in any year varies considerably with the seasons and weather conditions.

Key Actions

 Restoration of the freshwater springs and streams (April 2018).  Open up access to the wet woodland by means of a 250m boardwalk (April 2019).  Create a new reed fen habitat (April 2018).  Continue management of reedbed and meadow habitats according to schedule of works.  Review Tree Management Policy (annually).  On-going maintenance and management – annual scrub clearance (Oct-Mar)

Community Involvement

We will consult with the community to ensure that Batford Springs LNR has appropriate information and facilities making it a good place to visit. In addition we will support well managed events and activities on the reserve and promote it as a place for education and learning.

Batford Springs Volunteers (BSV)

The monthly volunteering sessions provide a regular opportunity for members of the local community to get involved with practical management on the site. There are also opportunities throughout the spring and summer to undertake butterfly surveys.

Events

For some years BSV have worked with the local community on a relatively informal basis. This includes providing guided works, ad-hoc sessions with local schools and recruiting new volunteers. A Reserve Ramble is led annually by BSV that give local residence the opportunity to learn about the reserve and how it is managed.

Annual ‘Larks in the Parks’ and ‘Play in the Park’ events run by St Albans District Council are hosted at Batford Springs LNR. These are free family event with storytelling, arts and crafts, music workshops and sports activities.

From April 2017 onwards, Harpenden Town Council will be employing a part time People and Wildlife Officer to develop and deliver community engagement and education projects in Harpenden’s green spaces, including Batford Springs LNR. Their work will support that done by the BSVs and involve:  Raising awareness of the natural resources in Harpenden and encouraging participation in conservation  Creating a broader range of volunteering opportunities for a wider audience  Increasing opportunities for local schools to experience more out of the classroom learning.  Attracting new audiences to Harpenden’s green spaces and its wildlife.

A full work programme based around Batford Springs LNR will be put in place once the officer is in post.

Key Actions

 Gather information on user groups (from April 2017 onwards)  Encourage more local schools to use Batford Springs LNR as a learning resource (from April 2017 onwards)  Programme of community events throughout the year (from April 2017 onwards).

Marketing and Promotion

We aim to increase awareness and provide information on opportunities relating to Batford Springs LNR for both users and non-users.

Leaflet

A leaflet about Batford Springs LNR is available from the Town Council offices, however, this leaflet does now require updating since the expansion of the reserve.

Websites

Batford Springs LNR has its own page on the Town Council’s website.

Information about the reserve can also be found on the BSVs own website

Social media

Harpenden Town Council has its own Twitter and Facebook pages. Information about Batford Springs LNR and its events and wildlife spectacles are updated to both social media outlets.

Forum

Forum is a free quarterly magazine produced by the Town Council that goes to every household in the Town. Articles about the local nature reserve feature in this.

Posters

Posters for events at the nature reserve at displayed throughout the town centre and in the notice board on site. This notice board is replenished regularly by the BSVs.

Currently there is no regular information on reserve users in terms of numbers, demographic, activities in the reserve and length of visit. There is currently limited staff resource within the Town Council that can be allocated to collecting this. The Commons and Greens Officer will look to recruit volunteers to help with a schedule of data collection from April 2017 onwards.

Key Actions

 Notice boards replenished regularly (weekly)  Council wide Communication Plan written to include Batford Springs LNR (summer 2017). This plan will define who should be given information, when should that information be delivered and through what channels.  Council staff to continue highlighting points of interest in the park via twitter and social media (ad hoc basis).  Information gathered on user groups (from April 2017 onwards)

Appendix A - Harpenden Town Council Organisational Structure Line of reporting to Town Clerk

Planning Town Clerk function

Central Projects Officer Services/Mayor's Secretary

Business & Community Finance & Internal Services Manager Operations Manager

Business & Community Services function Business & Community Services Manager

Amenities Officer Events Officer

Planning, Commons & Information & Greens Officer Maintenance Facilities Officer Officer

Commons & Greens Outreach General Support Information Officer Assistant Officer

Caretaker

Cleaner

Finance & Internal Operations Function

Finance & Internal Operations Manager

Administrative Planning & Finance Business Support Support Officer Officer Apprentice

Environment Committee Terms of Reference Membership 7 Members of the Council

Matters All matters (including the preparation of a draft budget, periodic Delegated to review of expenditure and income and fees and charges for Committee consideration, by the Policy and Finance Committee and Council relating to- 1. Harpenden Common and Greens – including Common Management Plan, Grounds maintenance contracts, Woodland Management, Negotiating Wayleaves, Fairs and Circuses. 2. Hatching Green. 3. Lydekker Park and Car Park. 4. Community Arts and Events. 5. Farmers Market. 6. Allotments. 7. Batford Spring Local Nature Reserve. 8. Open Spaces and Play Areas – Porters Hill Park, Westfield Recreation Ground and Marquis Lane. 9. Harpenden in Bloom. 10. Tourism. 11. Leisure and Sports - including Harpenden Common Golf Club, Harpenden Cricket Club, Bamville Cricket Club and Harpenden Rovers Football Club. 12. The Definitive Footpath Network. 13. Street Furniture. 14. Banner applications. 15. Consultation Documents as appropriate to the committee. 16. Negotiate devolvement of land and services from other bodies or agencies prior to referring to Policy and Finance Committee for budgetary agreement and to Council for approval.

APPENDIX B – Batford Springs Volunteers Constitution

1. Name

The name of the group shall be the 'Batford Springs Volunteers' (BSV).

Aims

• To enhance the natural quality of the area within our remit (centred around the Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve) through active conservation work, to the benefit of both the public and the natural environment • To publicise the area and its amenities to Harpenden residents, including schools and young people’s associations • To promote and use to best effect the individual and combined skills that exist within the Volunteers to support the Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve’s long-term conservation plans.

Membership

Membership shall be open to any person who shares the aims of the group and has paid any registration fee or any agreed annual membership fee. Any fees that are to be levied in future will be agreed by a majority of members at the Annual General Meeting.

Equal Opportunities

The activities of the group shall be conducted in such a manner that no person shall be discriminated against on grounds of age, sexual orientation, disability, race, nor political or religious affiliation.

Management

• The activities of the group shall be administered by a Management Committee comprising not less than 3 and not more than 12 members elected at an Annual General Meeting. (AGM) • Any person wishing to stand for election to the Management Committee must have been a member for a minimum of 3 months prior to the AGM. • The Officers of the Committee shall be the Chairperson, Treasurer and Secretary. • One third of the Management Committee (rounded down to the nearest number divisible by 3) shall retire at each AGM - but may offer themselves for re-election. • The maximum time that any Officer of the Committee can hold their post is 9 years. For the current Officers, the start of the 9 year period will be from 1st April 2007. • The Committee shall meet at agreed intervals - and not less than once a year. • A minimum of 3 members shall be present for a Management Committee meeting to be valid. • The Committee may co-opt up to 3 persons to serve on the Committee.

• Voting at Committee meetings shall be by show of hands. If a vote is tied - the Chairperson shall have a second (casting) vote.

Accounts

• Any funds held by the group shall be in the name of 'Batford Springs Volunteers' and accounted for by the elected Treasurer. • Accounts shall be submitted to a certified examiner annually for review and approval • Members’ liability shall be, and is hereby limited to, the amount of their subscriptions • Should the group cease to function - any funds held shall be transferred to an appropriate registered charity.

Annual General Meeting (AGM)

• The Annual General Meeting shall be held within 28 days of the 1st April each year. • The current Chairperson of the Management Committee shall act as Chairperson for the AGM unless, by agreement, another person is invited to take the chair. • Attendance at the AGM shall be open to all - but voting rights shall be restricted to registered Batford Springs Volunteers members. • Voting at the AGM shall be by show of hands and simple majority. Should a vote be tied – the Chairperson shall have a second (casting) vote. • A minimum of 14 days notice of an AGM shall be given - and the meeting shall be advertised to the local communities.

Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM)

An Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) may be called by the Management Committee - or at the request of a member to the Management Committee - to discuss an urgent matter. A minimum of 14 days notice shall be given of such a meeting - together with details of the business to be discussed.

Changes to the Constitution

The Constitution shall not be altered except at a General Meeting (AGM or EGM) by a simple majority of registered Batford Springs Volunteers members present and voting.

APPENDIX C - John O’Conner St Albans Contract Organisational Structure

Appendix D – Targets, factors and specification for management of the key features

Feature Targets Main factors Specification Additional funding required

Amenity grass A regular mowing Cutting regime Grounds maintenance contractors mow the regime to allows for grass on a performance basis, checking the maximise recreational condition every 2 weeks. opportunities for activities: ball recreation. games and HTC maintenance team strim around the edge of picnics to take pathways and furniture once every two weeks in place. the growing season.

Park furniture To maintain all Identify wear The bridge, path and benches are inspected including the furniture in a and tear quickly once a week by HTC Maintenance Team and footpath clean and safe and remedy. recorded on a report sheet. Any issues are state reported directly to the Commons and Greens Officer.

To apply an all Increasing the Initial meeting with Herts footpath officer in Yes. Prospective funding through weather all ability area of reserve March 2017, to secure funding by June 2017. Hertfordshire County Council and surface on the that is open to Parish Paths Partnership grant remainder of all. scheme. Meeting with HCC on 15th footpath 24. March 2017.

Litter To keep the Adjust litter- Grounds maintenance contractors litter pick the reserve free from picking regime reserve on a performance basis checking the litter according to reserve weekly. General and dog waste bins are seasonal usage. emptied three times a week on a Monday and Friday.

Interpretation To inform reserve Existing panels are out of date and require Yes. Funding stream yet to be panels users about the updating. Replacement panels to be designed by indentified. BSV to identify external key features, BSV and HTC with the hope to have new ones grants and review at next BSV history and installed by April 2018. working group April 2017. New panels wildlife installed by April 2019.

Notice boards To provide up to BSV and HTC maintenance team to check/or date information replenish notice boards every week. Council about the officers and BSV to provide posters as and when reserve, local events require advertising. events and activities.

Collect Views and To allow a Limited staff resource to collect user group information on information marketing plan information. Commons and Greens Officer to user groups gathered from 50 to be developed recruit volunteers to start a schedule of data different users. and identify collection from April 2017 onwards. To review opportunities to findings after a 3 month period. engage with marginalised groups.

Reedbed (chalk To maintain a Reedbed BSV scythe annually on rotation 20% each year. stream) healthy balance encroachment, All cuttings left on the side of the pond for up to of open water to loss of open 48 hours to allow wildlife to return to the water. emergent water. The surrounding vegetation be allowed to grow vegetation. to support species associated with the pond.

Wet woodland To make this There is Creation of a 250m fully accessible boardwalk. Yes. Accurate quotes for boardwalk habitat accessible currently no Small degree of tree felling needs to take place will be sought by May 2017. HTC to to all. formal access in order to create space for the path - this can be apply for planning permission by end into the central carried out by HTC maintenance officer. of the year. Build subject to funding. section of the Stronger, well-formed specimens of trees will be Current grant being considered by reserve. selected for retention. Thames Water for £150K, which is estimated to more than cover entire costs. Otherwise BSV currently sourcing alternative funding streams. To be reviewed at next BSV working

group April 2017. The aim is to complete works by April 2019. To maintain the Overgrowth of All woodland work should ideally take place structural scrub and young between mid-November to the end of February diversity of the trees into dense, to avoid the bird breeding season. woodland, dark habitat. promoting the BSV to carry out ongoing management of the oldest trees and scrub layer in particular nettles which will ensure allowing young open areas are retained and a greater diversity scrub to develop. of ground flora can established. This can be achieved by strimming areas heavily affected by nettles once every 2 weeks in growing season for a couple of seasons.

Maintain To provide Retain all standing dead wood where safe, deadwood both habitat for otherwise fell in large blocks to the woodland standing and saproxylic floor. fallen. insects

Repairing river To stop the flow The spring water comes direct from the chalk leaks of river water aquifers and consequently is almost pure and is into the damp of constant temperature. wet woodland and then into BSV to dredge and clear the central pond with its the chalk two springs and the stream which connects them stream. to the main freshwater stream. The removal of this material will be used to fill and reinstate the wet woodland floor where the river leaks have scoured gullies.

Freshwater To re-instate and The stream bed De-silting of the main pool and streams springs and expand the fresh is compromised Estimated costs £3.5K funded by streams water habitats in various HTC. Work complete by April 2018 (water and land locations, the Re-drilling of 2 new boreholes and exposing and based) which channel is marking 2 existing boreholes. Costs unknown – quotes sought by existed when the overshadowed Re-pair of stream channel May 2017.

watercress farm by vegetation ceased and a large Ongoing removal of all non-native flora from the production. amount of silt stream banks by BSV £2K grant from Aviva awarded. Work has built up on complete by April 2018. the stream bed. Tree removal alongside and overhanging streams. Estimated costs £2K funded by HTC Work complete by April 2018.

Meadow To maintain the Scrub The meadow grass is cut once a year by an habitat floral diversity of encroachment – external contractor with all arisings to be the grassland pioneering scrub removed. Cut and remove the hay after 31st July through will encroach to achieve a sward height of between 2cm to appropriate into unmanaged 10cm in October/November. Ideally cutting cutting areas. should commence in the middle of the fields management. outwards to allow wildlife to escape. Leave hay to dry for 48 hours before baling. All bales to be removed as soon as possible.

Maintain Contractor to leave a minimum of 1m uncut strip structural against boundary features such as diversity within woodland/scrub margins to create a grass-scrub the grassland and ecotone. Cut on rotation every 3 years with create ecotones invasive scrub removed annually. between habitats where possible. BSV to continue to control self-set trees and prevent scrub encroachment to the fringes of the meadow.

Creation of a To maximise HTC to obtain planning permission by July 2017: new reed fen diversity of - Method statement for works, including habitat habitats on the profiles, depths and an appropriate edge reserve. design - Ecological report demonstrating the value of the land to be excavated, identifying

any required mitigation for habitat or species identified. - Location map for all spoil

Once permissions are in place a contractor will Estimated costs £2K funded by HTC. excavate the site and relocate the spoil Work complete by April 2018. Surveying to include bats, invertebrate (butterflies, moths, beetles, crickets) and aquatic invertebrates in the chalk stream.

Biological Set up a Up-skill Register as a NBMP survey site ready to start surveying schedule of volunteers surveying for bats in July 2017. Training given to surveying by July where possible the volunteers in the first survey period. 2017 to gather to carryout information on survey work. Expertise and guidance sought through the the flora/fauna Harpenden Ecology Group. found on the reserve.

Control of non Seasonal control Hand pulling As per the Environment Agency guidance 2010 native species of non-native on Managing invasive non-native plants in or species such as Application of near fresh water. Himalayan pesticide on Balsam and Russian Ongoing management by BSV. Russian Comfrey Comfrey. in various locations

Tree To maintain the All trees to have a full H&S survey carried out by management trees in a healthy an external contractor every 5 years (next survey and safe March 2022). condition Recommended works carried out in priority order by an external contractor.

General To ensure the Upkeep of the HQ (to be formalised once the administration, smooth running new build is complete), utilities costs, PL and procurement of BSV as an general insurance, maintenance and operation of and publicity organisation and mechanical equipment, tool replacement and relating the the reserve. repair programme, provision of appropriate PPE BSV. to volunteers, publicity material and equipment.

APPENDIX E - Additional Supporting Documents

The following additional supporting documents will be available for inspection on the Green Flag Award Judging Day:

 Current Health and Safety tree inspections surveys  RoSPA water safety review February 2017  Tree Management Plan  Tree Policy  Risk assessment examples  Maintenance Officer/General Assistant monthly work schedule  Pesticide Policy  Policy Statement  Corporate Risk Management Strategy  Policy on controlling non-native invasive species  Species survey results