The land called Squire's Down was purchased in 2007 and had previously been a stubble field. Planning permission was sought for a change of use to encourage wildlife, and was granted later that year. Ground work was carried out throughout October and early November. From that autumn through to 2018 extensive planting of bushes and shrubs was implemented. These included Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Elder, Privet, Alder Buckthorn, Spindle Berry, Mountain Ash, Crab-apple, Gilder Rose, Bramble and Sallow. The resulting habitat is now established and no further planting is anticipated.
A quarter of the grassland is cut every two weeks during the summer, with the remaining 75% left to nature. Bushes and shrubs are managed to restrict their height around the ponds and adjacent areas. Particular focus is given to the boundary of the reserve, to restrict height and provide a three-dimensional habitat containing numerous plant species that provide an important food resource for migratory bird species. This is carried out on a 3-4 year cycle to maintain a healthy dense hedge complex.
The pond and lake vegetation has developed, requiring very little maintenance. However, the decision was made to extract 95% of typha growing within the ponds.
A quarter of the grassland is cut every two weeks during the summer, with the remaining 75% left to nature. Bushes and shrubs are managed to restrict their height around the ponds and adjacent areas. Particular focus is given to the boundary of the reserve, to restrict height and provide a three-dimensional habitat containing numerous plant species that provide an important food resource for migratory bird species. This is carried out on a 3-4 year cycle to maintain a healthy dense hedge complex.
The pond and lake vegetation has developed, requiring very little maintenance. However, the decision was made to extract 95% of typha growing within the ponds.