Valley Park Woodlands, Local Nature
Reserve, Skyswood Road, Chandlers Ford
These ancient woodlands which cover approximately 40 hectares
and feature a mix of restored coppice, woodland rides, open glades,
ponds and rough grassland, have been managed by Test Valley since
1998.
The primary aims of the management of Valley Park Woodlands
are:
- Conservation - the woods are a valuable resource
of flora and fauna. Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland (ASNW) is locally
and nationally important. Active management will be sympathetic to
existing habitats whilst creating new ones to enhance the
conservation value of the site.
- Recreation - due to the proximity of the housing
development to the woodland, pressure is expected to be great. The
site is well used by local residents for dog walking. It is vital
that the woodland habitats are not degraded by public access and
are protected with the use of bylaws and education.
- Education - the wildlife and archaeology of the
site is a great educational resource for local schools, residents
and interested groups. A Wildtrek Trailer, a mobile ecology
laboratory, regularly visits this site and hundreds of local school
children have enjoyed this activity.
Historically the woodlands formed
part of the New Forest and through development and forest clearance
is now an important relic of the past. Various upstanding
archeological structures still exist which are classed as
nationally important and for which Scheduled Ancient Monument
Status will be sought from English Heritage.
The woodlands are as rich in wildlife as they are in history
and archaeology with bluebells and early purple orchids blooming
through the spring and summer feeding a variety of insects, birds
and mammals.
Lifebelts, which are inspected weekly, are strategically
placed around the three balancing ponds on this site.
Friends of the Park, a local volunteer group, support the work
of the Test Valley Borough Council Countryside Officers.