Widnell Park/Jubilee Reserve/Playing Field
Updates
June 2019
An introductory session on using the new Fitness Trail equipment was held at the playing field on 16 June. The circuit, which measures 1/2 km, includes 6 stations. Thanks to Annabel from Proludic Sport (and mum!) for showing us around the equipment and setting up the Proludic App for those who had brought their phones. The session involved much laughter but on a serious note everyone thought the event very worthwhile.
Everyone attending received a Proludic gift bag and resolved to return. The Proludic App is available for iPhone and Android users and details exercises which can be used on the equipment at the Piddington Fitness Trail and other green gyms around the country. For more information go to the Proludic website.
An introductory session on using the new Fitness Trail equipment was held at the playing field on 16 June. The circuit, which measures 1/2 km, includes 6 stations. Thanks to Annabel from Proludic Sport (and mum!) for showing us around the equipment and setting up the Proludic App for those who had brought their phones. The session involved much laughter but on a serious note everyone thought the event very worthwhile.
Everyone attending received a Proludic gift bag and resolved to return. The Proludic App is available for iPhone and Android users and details exercises which can be used on the equipment at the Piddington Fitness Trail and other green gyms around the country. For more information go to the Proludic website.
May 2019
The May blossom (hawthorn) is flowering beautifully in Widnell Park and on the playing field the Fitness Trail has been installed. The football nets and picnic tables are ready for use too.
The May blossom (hawthorn) is flowering beautifully in Widnell Park and on the playing field the Fitness Trail has been installed. The football nets and picnic tables are ready for use too.
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March 2019
Proludic will be installing the Fitness Trail in April. Once it is completed the company will organise a launch event along with the The Parish Council, which will introduce residents to the equipment and explain how it is used. The grass will be cut at the end of March and more football nets will be provided. Chicken wire has been put over the bottom of the kissing gate to increase security for dog walkers. |
The daffodils are out in Widnell Park! March 2019.
Photo: Francesca Darby
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A snowy Widnell Park, February 2019. Photo: Kim Elliott
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February 2019
The company installing the Fitness Trail, Proludic, has revised its prices to include signage – which means that the original quote will include an extra piece of equipment. It is hoped that the Trail will be installed by Easter 2019. The Parish Council acknowledged with grateful thanks a donation of £500 towards the cost of the work from the Pantry. Councillors using the playing field were asked to advise the Clerk if the dog bin there appeared to be too full, and she will ask for it to be emptied. The Clerk was also asked to request more dog waste bags. |
January 2019
The Parish Council agreed that the formal grant offer should be accepted and the third-party contribution paid to Viridor as requested. The Pantry committee have also pledged £500 towards the project. The preferred supplier, Proludic, have quoted a total cost of £8688 + VAT to construct, deliver and install the Fitness Trail, and this was accepted unanimously by the Council. The company has also agreed to hold event for residents once the trail is built. Cherwell District Council has confirmed that no planning permission is required for development on land owned by the Parish Council, provided that the overall height will be no greater than 4 metres high.
The Parish Council agreed that the formal grant offer should be accepted and the third-party contribution paid to Viridor as requested. The Pantry committee have also pledged £500 towards the project. The preferred supplier, Proludic, have quoted a total cost of £8688 + VAT to construct, deliver and install the Fitness Trail, and this was accepted unanimously by the Council. The company has also agreed to hold event for residents once the trail is built. Cherwell District Council has confirmed that no planning permission is required for development on land owned by the Parish Council, provided that the overall height will be no greater than 4 metres high.
December 2018
The application to Viridor has been successful and the Parish Council has been offered a grant of £7486 towards the cost of a fitness trail.
The application to Viridor has been successful and the Parish Council has been offered a grant of £7486 towards the cost of a fitness trail.
November 2018
The grant application to Viridor for a fitness trail has passed their first stage, and a site visit is taking place at 3pm on 5 December.
There was concern at the level of dog waste on the playing field, and councillors will review the campaign from the Keep Britain Tidy group to decide whether it is likely to be able to reduce this. The alternative would be to close the area to dogs after dark.
The grant application to Viridor for a fitness trail has passed their first stage, and a site visit is taking place at 3pm on 5 December.
There was concern at the level of dog waste on the playing field, and councillors will review the campaign from the Keep Britain Tidy group to decide whether it is likely to be able to reduce this. The alternative would be to close the area to dogs after dark.
October 2018
Hedges around the reserve have been cut and the new litter bin is in place in the Jubilee Reserve.
Hedges around the reserve have been cut and the new litter bin is in place in the Jubilee Reserve.
September 2018
The 'Pidnic in the Park' event on the playing field was great fun, raised awareness of what a great village asset this area was, and in addition raised nearly £300 for the village hall playground renewal fund. Villagers brought their own picnics and enjoyed a fun dog show, took part in (or laughed at) an Adults v Kids football match and cooled down at the ice cream van.
The 'Pidnic in the Park' event on the playing field was great fun, raised awareness of what a great village asset this area was, and in addition raised nearly £300 for the village hall playground renewal fund. Villagers brought their own picnics and enjoyed a fun dog show, took part in (or laughed at) an Adults v Kids football match and cooled down at the ice cream van.
August 2018
The Parish Council has made an application to WREN for a £20,000 grant to secure a fitness trail, and has also made an application for support of up to £4000 from the Tesco Bags of Help Scheme. A further application for grant funding from Viridor will be made by the end of October.
OCC has estimated the sum of £500 for 2 road signs by Widnell Park warning of pedestrians and bends in the road. The Parish Council agreed to go ahead with this work and asked the Clerk to instruct OCC accordingly.
The playing field now has two new half-size football goalposts, and there has definitely been an increase in the number of people playing football on the field since they were erected.
There will be a Picnic in the Park fun day on 16 September, featuring a fun dog show and organised games.
The Parish Council has made an application to WREN for a £20,000 grant to secure a fitness trail, and has also made an application for support of up to £4000 from the Tesco Bags of Help Scheme. A further application for grant funding from Viridor will be made by the end of October.
OCC has estimated the sum of £500 for 2 road signs by Widnell Park warning of pedestrians and bends in the road. The Parish Council agreed to go ahead with this work and asked the Clerk to instruct OCC accordingly.
The playing field now has two new half-size football goalposts, and there has definitely been an increase in the number of people playing football on the field since they were erected.
There will be a Picnic in the Park fun day on 16 September, featuring a fun dog show and organised games.
July 2018
The meadow grass at the Jubilee Reserve has been cut beautifully. Thanks from the Parish Council are due to the farmer concerned. The Clerk advised that OCC had asked for Google streetview screenshots of the location of safety signs for the entrance to the playing field. Once received she will send them to OCC to make arrangements for such signs to be erected.
There had been suggestions from villagers about holding an event on the playing field. It was agreed that the Parish Council would make arrangements for some fully accessible mobile toilet facilities to be made available, should such an event proceed.
Villagers are increasingly using the area, but unfortunately there have been problems with littering, and this month one of the bins was destroyed by a portable BBQ that hadn't been completely extinguished. We encourage people to enjoy the space, but if you intend to use a BBQ please ensure you dispose of it responsibly and that you leave the area clean and tidy and don't rely on others to pick up after your festivities.
The meadow grass at the Jubilee Reserve has been cut beautifully. Thanks from the Parish Council are due to the farmer concerned. The Clerk advised that OCC had asked for Google streetview screenshots of the location of safety signs for the entrance to the playing field. Once received she will send them to OCC to make arrangements for such signs to be erected.
There had been suggestions from villagers about holding an event on the playing field. It was agreed that the Parish Council would make arrangements for some fully accessible mobile toilet facilities to be made available, should such an event proceed.
Villagers are increasingly using the area, but unfortunately there have been problems with littering, and this month one of the bins was destroyed by a portable BBQ that hadn't been completely extinguished. We encourage people to enjoy the space, but if you intend to use a BBQ please ensure you dispose of it responsibly and that you leave the area clean and tidy and don't rely on others to pick up after your festivities.
June 2018
Work to fence part of the Jubilee Reserve has been completed, and outstanding snags will be resolved shortly. Large slabs of concrete found on the site will be removed and placed in an alternative location at the site. The Parish Council noted that the meadow was cut last year in July, and all councillors were asked to consider how the Council should manage the ragwort currently growing on the site. Options appeared to be (a) to burn the plants in situ, (b) to compost all the grass/ragwort cuttings and use them as a mulch around the woodland area or (c) to bale the cutting and use it locally during the year. If option (c) was chosen, it was agreed that councillors would approach local farmers to enquire whether they could bale the grass into smaller, more manageable, bales.
Work to fence part of the Jubilee Reserve has been completed, and outstanding snags will be resolved shortly. Large slabs of concrete found on the site will be removed and placed in an alternative location at the site. The Parish Council noted that the meadow was cut last year in July, and all councillors were asked to consider how the Council should manage the ragwort currently growing on the site. Options appeared to be (a) to burn the plants in situ, (b) to compost all the grass/ragwort cuttings and use them as a mulch around the woodland area or (c) to bale the cutting and use it locally during the year. If option (c) was chosen, it was agreed that councillors would approach local farmers to enquire whether they could bale the grass into smaller, more manageable, bales.
May 2018
The new pedestrian gate and wire fencing has been installed, hopefully improving access and making the playing field more secure. There is still work to be done on the surface around the pedestrian gate to level it off. The Parish Council islooking for volunteers to help with this.
There was concern that motorists travelling along Widnell Lane were not alerted to the presence of children playing on the field. This was especially worrying as there is an extremely tight bend and a concealed entrance to the area. It was agreed the Clerk should ask OCC for signs warning motorists of a dangerous bend, and the Parish Council would look at options to put warning signs of children at play in the vicinity of the entrance.
PPC have submitted an application for a £5000 grant from the Calor Community Fund towards the costs of a Trim Trail for the playing field/meadow area. The project has been called 'Fitness for All'. The ultimate success of the project will be based on a public vote which starts on 25 May. Please vote and share the link with family and friends: https://www.calor.co.uk/communityfund/sports-field-trim-trail-gym
The new pedestrian gate and wire fencing has been installed, hopefully improving access and making the playing field more secure. There is still work to be done on the surface around the pedestrian gate to level it off. The Parish Council islooking for volunteers to help with this.
There was concern that motorists travelling along Widnell Lane were not alerted to the presence of children playing on the field. This was especially worrying as there is an extremely tight bend and a concealed entrance to the area. It was agreed the Clerk should ask OCC for signs warning motorists of a dangerous bend, and the Parish Council would look at options to put warning signs of children at play in the vicinity of the entrance.
PPC have submitted an application for a £5000 grant from the Calor Community Fund towards the costs of a Trim Trail for the playing field/meadow area. The project has been called 'Fitness for All'. The ultimate success of the project will be based on a public vote which starts on 25 May. Please vote and share the link with family and friends: https://www.calor.co.uk/communityfund/sports-field-trim-trail-gym
April 2018
So far this year the land has been too wet for the grass to be cut, but a spell of dry weather should improve the situation.
It was agreed that the Parish Council will develop some proposals for improved facilities at Widnell Park, and then consider what grant options are available. The Council agreed to install new fencing between the playing field and Widnell Park, securing the area around the pond, at the end of May. A pedestrian gate will also be added to the entrance to Widnell Park, making the area more accessible for buggies and wheelchair users as the main gate is permanently locked.
The Council is finalising quotes for a small community outside gym or fitness trail and applying for grants to provide funds for its’ purchase. The idea of tennis courts or MUGA has been suggested, but this but requires large community engagement and consultation due to costs and possible siting.
So far this year the land has been too wet for the grass to be cut, but a spell of dry weather should improve the situation.
It was agreed that the Parish Council will develop some proposals for improved facilities at Widnell Park, and then consider what grant options are available. The Council agreed to install new fencing between the playing field and Widnell Park, securing the area around the pond, at the end of May. A pedestrian gate will also be added to the entrance to Widnell Park, making the area more accessible for buggies and wheelchair users as the main gate is permanently locked.
The Council is finalising quotes for a small community outside gym or fitness trail and applying for grants to provide funds for its’ purchase. The idea of tennis courts or MUGA has been suggested, but this but requires large community engagement and consultation due to costs and possible siting.
March 2018
The Parish Council is interested in improving the facilities at the playing field. It was agreed that the area around the pond should be cleared, vegetation cut back, and some trees cut down. The Council agreed in principle that the boundary between the playing field and pond should be refenced to increase the safety for users. Councillors also agreed to consider options for a pedestrian entrance to Widnell Park, particularly for buggy users, and to enter into further discussions with the fencing contractor.
The Parish Council is interested in improving the facilities at the playing field. It was agreed that the area around the pond should be cleared, vegetation cut back, and some trees cut down. The Council agreed in principle that the boundary between the playing field and pond should be refenced to increase the safety for users. Councillors also agreed to consider options for a pedestrian entrance to Widnell Park, particularly for buggy users, and to enter into further discussions with the fencing contractor.
February 2018
The Parish Council agreed to continue using the current contractor. Grass-cutting will start at the beginning of April and will be cut twice a month until November. The verges and woodland area will be strimmed once a month. The Parish Council is looking at making the gates safer for parents with young children and dog walkers and are hoping to start work on clearing around the pond this spring if enough volunteers can be encouraged to help. The Council will also look into fencing some of this area, and at wording and safety features (including fencing and lifebelts) for the ponds.
It was agreed to investigate the possibility of purchasing a ride-on mower for subsequent years to cut the playing field/meadow and to consider the possibility of using village volunteers. Concerns were raised that there would not be a sufficient number of volunteers able to commit to the work on a regular basis and that the Council would still need to pay a contractor to complete work the mower could not deal with.
The Parish Council agreed to continue using the current contractor. Grass-cutting will start at the beginning of April and will be cut twice a month until November. The verges and woodland area will be strimmed once a month. The Parish Council is looking at making the gates safer for parents with young children and dog walkers and are hoping to start work on clearing around the pond this spring if enough volunteers can be encouraged to help. The Council will also look into fencing some of this area, and at wording and safety features (including fencing and lifebelts) for the ponds.
It was agreed to investigate the possibility of purchasing a ride-on mower for subsequent years to cut the playing field/meadow and to consider the possibility of using village volunteers. Concerns were raised that there would not be a sufficient number of volunteers able to commit to the work on a regular basis and that the Council would still need to pay a contractor to complete work the mower could not deal with.
January 2018
The Parish Council will do a cost comparison for grass cutting and maintenance to ensure it is getting the best value for money for this village asset.
The Council agreed to update the quote for a green gym/fitness trail, and to look at pursuing grant applications to cover the cost of purchase and installation.
Dog waste bags will be made available in the playing field and dog walkers will be encouraged to use them. Dog walkers will also be encouraged to pick up dog waste from the highway verges.The Parish Council agreed to consider a social event on the playing field to encourage residents to come along and help dig out the ragwort at an early stage of growth. It was also agreed that a latch should be put on the playing field gate, and the gate on the Jubilee Reserve be relocated to the entrance.
The Parish Council will do a cost comparison for grass cutting and maintenance to ensure it is getting the best value for money for this village asset.
The Council agreed to update the quote for a green gym/fitness trail, and to look at pursuing grant applications to cover the cost of purchase and installation.
Dog waste bags will be made available in the playing field and dog walkers will be encouraged to use them. Dog walkers will also be encouraged to pick up dog waste from the highway verges.The Parish Council agreed to consider a social event on the playing field to encourage residents to come along and help dig out the ragwort at an early stage of growth. It was also agreed that a latch should be put on the playing field gate, and the gate on the Jubilee Reserve be relocated to the entrance.
December 2017
The Council agreed that it was important to clarify the terms to which the Jubilee Reserve is subject, and the extent of the land covered by any restrictions. The Chair agreed to ask former Councillor Hearn for information about the terms of grants for the Jubilee Reserve.
The Council agreed that it was important to clarify the terms to which the Jubilee Reserve is subject, and the extent of the land covered by any restrictions. The Chair agreed to ask former Councillor Hearn for information about the terms of grants for the Jubilee Reserve.
November 2017
It was agreed that the purchase of bulbs for the Jubilee Reserve should be deferred for 12 months in view of other pressures on councillors’ time. The Dog Warden is continuing to visit the site, although dog poo on the playing field is still a problem.
It was agreed that the purchase of bulbs for the Jubilee Reserve should be deferred for 12 months in view of other pressures on councillors’ time. The Dog Warden is continuing to visit the site, although dog poo on the playing field is still a problem.
October 2017
It was agreed that bulbs for the Jubilee Reserve should be purchased and planted, and the pond dredged.
The Dog Warden has now started to visit the site, and new notices about dog fouling have been put up.
Cllr Terzino reported that he had received an offer of football training for children in the village, to take place on a Saturday or Sunday. If there was sufficient interest the Parish Council could apply for grants towards the cost of equipment and the building of a storage facility on the existing concrete base at the playing field.
It was agreed that bulbs for the Jubilee Reserve should be purchased and planted, and the pond dredged.
The Dog Warden has now started to visit the site, and new notices about dog fouling have been put up.
Cllr Terzino reported that he had received an offer of football training for children in the village, to take place on a Saturday or Sunday. If there was sufficient interest the Parish Council could apply for grants towards the cost of equipment and the building of a storage facility on the existing concrete base at the playing field.
September 2017
The Chair has requested advice on the management of the Jubilee Reserve/Widnell Park, from Wild Oxfordshire and a private Land Agent. The Council noted that a resident had recently held a very successful celebration on the area and agreed that residents should be encouraged to make use of the facility.
There was concern about the amount of dog mess left lying on the ground on the playing field. It was agreed that the Clerk would contact the CDC Dog Warden, ask him to include the area in his patrols and to put up notices asking users to clear up after their dogs. The Parish Council will investigate the availability of a dog waste bag dispenser, which could be placed at the side of the dog bins, and will put up notices advising users that the field is monitored regularly.
The Chair has requested advice on the management of the Jubilee Reserve/Widnell Park, from Wild Oxfordshire and a private Land Agent. The Council noted that a resident had recently held a very successful celebration on the area and agreed that residents should be encouraged to make use of the facility.
There was concern about the amount of dog mess left lying on the ground on the playing field. It was agreed that the Clerk would contact the CDC Dog Warden, ask him to include the area in his patrols and to put up notices asking users to clear up after their dogs. The Parish Council will investigate the availability of a dog waste bag dispenser, which could be placed at the side of the dog bins, and will put up notices advising users that the field is monitored regularly.
August 2017
OCC spray the verges for weeds at the same time as the verges are cut. Councillors have recently moved the hay bales to a more convenient location in the field, and it was agreed that the Parish Council would consider the future of the wildflower meadow and the ragwort at its November meeting.
OCC spray the verges for weeds at the same time as the verges are cut. Councillors have recently moved the hay bales to a more convenient location in the field, and it was agreed that the Parish Council would consider the future of the wildflower meadow and the ragwort at its November meeting.
July 2017
Since the meeting In June the Parish Council has been investigating the appropriate removal of ragwort, and is hopeful that Cllr Sames (OCC) will be able to track down some practicable advice. The meadow grass has now been cut and baled. Two residents have cleared and removed debris from the pond.
The woodland area at Widnell Park had been strimmed earlier this year and now required to be treated again.
The Council expressed its disappointment that graffiti had been inscribed into the new picnic tables.
The Council agreed that they would consider planting the area with spring flowers, and would ask residents for donations of indigenous bluebells, cowslips primroses etc. The Council had allocated £50 towards additional bulbs in the village from the Gigaclear rental money and this should be used for the purchase.
Since the meeting In June the Parish Council has been investigating the appropriate removal of ragwort, and is hopeful that Cllr Sames (OCC) will be able to track down some practicable advice. The meadow grass has now been cut and baled. Two residents have cleared and removed debris from the pond.
The woodland area at Widnell Park had been strimmed earlier this year and now required to be treated again.
The Council expressed its disappointment that graffiti had been inscribed into the new picnic tables.
The Council agreed that they would consider planting the area with spring flowers, and would ask residents for donations of indigenous bluebells, cowslips primroses etc. The Council had allocated £50 towards additional bulbs in the village from the Gigaclear rental money and this should be used for the purchase.
June 2017
Attempts to spray ragwort have not been successful as the plant is too widespread. The Council therefore agreed to instruct a local farmer to cut, bale, remove and burn the crop at a cost of £150. Future maintenance of the area now needs to be considered, including:
1. The possibility of grazing the area with sheep following the cut, which would remove the grass and expose the ragwort for easier spraying, but which would require capital outlay on fencing to control the sheep, and also present a potential conflict with dog walkers who use the area.
2. Consider smaller square bales, which could then be sold as raw material.
3. Consider options for recycling the green waste.
The locks have been changed in the car park.
Attempts to spray ragwort have not been successful as the plant is too widespread. The Council therefore agreed to instruct a local farmer to cut, bale, remove and burn the crop at a cost of £150. Future maintenance of the area now needs to be considered, including:
1. The possibility of grazing the area with sheep following the cut, which would remove the grass and expose the ragwort for easier spraying, but which would require capital outlay on fencing to control the sheep, and also present a potential conflict with dog walkers who use the area.
2. Consider smaller square bales, which could then be sold as raw material.
3. Consider options for recycling the green waste.
The locks have been changed in the car park.
May 2017
The Parish Council has taken advice from BBOWT confirming that, in the Jubilee Reserve, it would be appropriate for the ragwort to be removed. While there are moth species that eat ragwort, there are alternative sources of food for these insects close by. The Council has contacted a contractor recommended by BBOWT and await his quote to carry out a carpet spray of the area to eliminate the problem.
Residents of Piddington have been invited to a private view of Meadow Farm, a BBOWT run nature reserve, on 10 June 2017.
The Parish Council has taken advice from BBOWT confirming that, in the Jubilee Reserve, it would be appropriate for the ragwort to be removed. While there are moth species that eat ragwort, there are alternative sources of food for these insects close by. The Council has contacted a contractor recommended by BBOWT and await his quote to carry out a carpet spray of the area to eliminate the problem.
Residents of Piddington have been invited to a private view of Meadow Farm, a BBOWT run nature reserve, on 10 June 2017.
April 2017
Grass cutting started in April at the playing field. The meadow will be left to grow until mid-June/July when it will be cut. We are expecting to spray the thistles in May and are taking advice from BBOWT on whether to keep the ragwort based on new ecological reports.
Grass cutting started in April at the playing field. The meadow will be left to grow until mid-June/July when it will be cut. We are expecting to spray the thistles in May and are taking advice from BBOWT on whether to keep the ragwort based on new ecological reports.
March 2017
Spring comes to Widnell Park and Jubilee Reserve. Photos: Kim Elliott and Andrew Coleman
Spring comes to Widnell Park and Jubilee Reserve. Photos: Kim Elliott and Andrew Coleman
January 2017
The woodland and pond area at Widnell Park has been cut back and tidied using money received from the Greggs Foundation. The balance of the grant will be used to clear the pond of debris and leaves. The intention is to create paths and underplant with indigenous bulbs. BBOWT has also visited the site and advised that the meadow should be cut twice over the growing period to promote wild flower growth. Ragwort and thistle will be treated in April/May subject to costs.
Grass cutting of the playing field should begin in April.
Grant applications are being submitted for funds to purchase an outside community gym for the playing field.
The woodland and pond area at Widnell Park has been cut back and tidied using money received from the Greggs Foundation. The balance of the grant will be used to clear the pond of debris and leaves. The intention is to create paths and underplant with indigenous bulbs. BBOWT has also visited the site and advised that the meadow should be cut twice over the growing period to promote wild flower growth. Ragwort and thistle will be treated in April/May subject to costs.
Grass cutting of the playing field should begin in April.
Grant applications are being submitted for funds to purchase an outside community gym for the playing field.
December 2016
BBOWT has met representatives of the Parish Council and made suggestions with regard to a maintenance proposal the meadow and the woodland area at Widnell Park/Jubilee Reserve, which the Parish Council will look to pursue over the medium term. Cost estimates are now awaited. The representative from BBOWT has suggested councillors may be interested in visiting a BBOWT run nature reserve, and it was agreed that councillors would find this helpful. Cllr Howard reported that he had seen a suggestion that community groups in Bicester could apply to CDC for SPARK funding, but he had been advised that Piddington was outside the SPARK Fund area. The Clerk was asked to question CDC as to the reasons for this comment as it was not apparent from the information produced.
From April 2017 there will be two cuts per month for the Widnell Park grass area and the playing fields (including frontage). The car park will also be sprayed at the beginning of the season.
The following work will be undertaken for the Jubilee Reserve meadow area:
Maintenance of the area for the next two years will include seeding in 2018/19.
The woodland area of Widnell Park has now been cut back and cleared. BBOWT’s representative suggested a quarter of the trees that were overhanging the pond (including odd branches) should be cut back, as they were currently depositing too many leaves into the pond. The Parish Council agreed to use the balance of the environmental grant to complete this work and clear the pond of leaves and debris. It was also recommended that the Parish Council arranges the woodland area to be strimmed on a monthly basis – for which quotes are awaited.
BBOWT has met representatives of the Parish Council and made suggestions with regard to a maintenance proposal the meadow and the woodland area at Widnell Park/Jubilee Reserve, which the Parish Council will look to pursue over the medium term. Cost estimates are now awaited. The representative from BBOWT has suggested councillors may be interested in visiting a BBOWT run nature reserve, and it was agreed that councillors would find this helpful. Cllr Howard reported that he had seen a suggestion that community groups in Bicester could apply to CDC for SPARK funding, but he had been advised that Piddington was outside the SPARK Fund area. The Clerk was asked to question CDC as to the reasons for this comment as it was not apparent from the information produced.
From April 2017 there will be two cuts per month for the Widnell Park grass area and the playing fields (including frontage). The car park will also be sprayed at the beginning of the season.
The following work will be undertaken for the Jubilee Reserve meadow area:
- spraying to eradicate ragwort, nettles and dock when the growing season starts
- meadow to be cut by farmer twice, ideally end June/July and end October with grass to be taken away
- the Council’s grass cutting contractor will cut two paths through the meadow alongside the perimeter at no extra charge and this will then be added into general grass maintenance.
Maintenance of the area for the next two years will include seeding in 2018/19.
The woodland area of Widnell Park has now been cut back and cleared. BBOWT’s representative suggested a quarter of the trees that were overhanging the pond (including odd branches) should be cut back, as they were currently depositing too many leaves into the pond. The Parish Council agreed to use the balance of the environmental grant to complete this work and clear the pond of leaves and debris. It was also recommended that the Parish Council arranges the woodland area to be strimmed on a monthly basis – for which quotes are awaited.
November 2016
Jubilee Reserve
There will be a meeting with representatives of BBOWT on 5 December 2016 for advice about the maintenance of the Jubilee Reserve. The Council’s current contractor is obtaining an estimate of the cost of clearance of ragwort and thistles from the meadow. The contractor had established that, as the temperature had now dropped below 9 degC, further grass growth is unlikely this year. No more grass cutting will therefore take place until the weather becomes warmer.
Widnell Park/playing field
The Parish Council has received an estimate of £1500 + VAT to clear the scrub on Widnell Park (to be paid for out of the Greggs Foundation grant). Clearance work is expected to start on 19 November.
Jubilee Reserve
There will be a meeting with representatives of BBOWT on 5 December 2016 for advice about the maintenance of the Jubilee Reserve. The Council’s current contractor is obtaining an estimate of the cost of clearance of ragwort and thistles from the meadow. The contractor had established that, as the temperature had now dropped below 9 degC, further grass growth is unlikely this year. No more grass cutting will therefore take place until the weather becomes warmer.
Widnell Park/playing field
The Parish Council has received an estimate of £1500 + VAT to clear the scrub on Widnell Park (to be paid for out of the Greggs Foundation grant). Clearance work is expected to start on 19 November.
18 October 2016
Jubilee Reserve
The Jubilee Reserve working group will meet a representative of BBOWT shortly for advice about the maintenance of the Jubilee reserve. The Council agreed to pay to have the meadow topped once more this year before the winter to encourage the growth of wild flowers. Ongoing maintenance of the meadow will be considered again by the Parish Council once it has received advice from BBOWT.
Widnell Park/playing field
The Chair has circulated three quotes for Green Gym equipment. It was agreed that the Chairman and Cllr Terzino would consider grant options to enable the Parish Council to consider this proposal in more detail. The Chair reported that she will shortly obtain a quote to clear back the overgrown vegetation in Widnell Park using the grant money from the Greggs Foundation.
Jubilee Reserve
The Jubilee Reserve working group will meet a representative of BBOWT shortly for advice about the maintenance of the Jubilee reserve. The Council agreed to pay to have the meadow topped once more this year before the winter to encourage the growth of wild flowers. Ongoing maintenance of the meadow will be considered again by the Parish Council once it has received advice from BBOWT.
Widnell Park/playing field
The Chair has circulated three quotes for Green Gym equipment. It was agreed that the Chairman and Cllr Terzino would consider grant options to enable the Parish Council to consider this proposal in more detail. The Chair reported that she will shortly obtain a quote to clear back the overgrown vegetation in Widnell Park using the grant money from the Greggs Foundation.
20 September 2016
Jubilee Reserve
The Parish Council unanimously agreed the following resolution:
It will not proceed any further with the dedication of this land as a formally designated local nature reserve (LNR) at this stage.It will consult appropriate environmental charities to enable it to manage the land in a way that is sympathetic to the maintenance of the rich ecology found on the site. It will develop, with expert help, a management scheme to maintain the site as a resource for educational purposes and as facility for residents and other interested parties.
Widnell Park/playing field
Once the leaves have fallen, contractors will be approached to quote to clear the woodland and pond areas with the aim of involving the community once the more specialist clearance had been completed. Money for the work will be from the Greggs Foundation grant.
It was agreed that the Council should obtain estimates from three (or more) contractors of the cost of installing a Green Gym on the perimeter of the playing field to be funded by grant applications. This, together with the proposed work on Widnell Park, would regenerate the area, and, hopefully, provide a recognised and useful asset for the village.
Jubilee Reserve
The Parish Council unanimously agreed the following resolution:
It will not proceed any further with the dedication of this land as a formally designated local nature reserve (LNR) at this stage.It will consult appropriate environmental charities to enable it to manage the land in a way that is sympathetic to the maintenance of the rich ecology found on the site. It will develop, with expert help, a management scheme to maintain the site as a resource for educational purposes and as facility for residents and other interested parties.
Widnell Park/playing field
Once the leaves have fallen, contractors will be approached to quote to clear the woodland and pond areas with the aim of involving the community once the more specialist clearance had been completed. Money for the work will be from the Greggs Foundation grant.
It was agreed that the Council should obtain estimates from three (or more) contractors of the cost of installing a Green Gym on the perimeter of the playing field to be funded by grant applications. This, together with the proposed work on Widnell Park, would regenerate the area, and, hopefully, provide a recognised and useful asset for the village.
12 September 2016
The £2000 grant from the Greggs Foundation will be used towards the regeneration of the pond and woodland area of Widnell Park. It is hoped that once the main clearance has happened later this year the village will be able to become involved in its upkeep and restoration. PPC intends to set up a funding group to look into the availability of other suitable grants.
It's great to see that the picnic tables have been used. The two benches were installed yesterday.
The £2000 grant from the Greggs Foundation will be used towards the regeneration of the pond and woodland area of Widnell Park. It is hoped that once the main clearance has happened later this year the village will be able to become involved in its upkeep and restoration. PPC intends to set up a funding group to look into the availability of other suitable grants.
It's great to see that the picnic tables have been used. The two benches were installed yesterday.
31 August 2016
PPC has received a grant of £2000 from the Greggs Foundation towards the regeneration of the woodland and pond area at Widnell Park. A plan will be finalised shortly as to how this money will be spent but the hope is that the community will take part in the work later this year.
The meadow grass at the Jubilee Reserve has been cut and baled. The working group will be meeting with BBOWT in September hopefully to put a plan in place for seed sowing for next year. The two benches will be installed in the reserve area in the next couple of weeks.
PPC initiated a campaign at the playing field, 'Bag It and Bin It', featuring the Dog Poo Fairy! Please be a responsible dog owner.
PPC has received a grant of £2000 from the Greggs Foundation towards the regeneration of the woodland and pond area at Widnell Park. A plan will be finalised shortly as to how this money will be spent but the hope is that the community will take part in the work later this year.
The meadow grass at the Jubilee Reserve has been cut and baled. The working group will be meeting with BBOWT in September hopefully to put a plan in place for seed sowing for next year. The two benches will be installed in the reserve area in the next couple of weeks.
PPC initiated a campaign at the playing field, 'Bag It and Bin It', featuring the Dog Poo Fairy! Please be a responsible dog owner.
16 August 2016
It was unanimously agreed that the Clerk should circulate a draft resolution relating to the Parish Council’s future proposals for the land for formal resolution when all councillors are present in September. This may include the need to establish a working party containing both parish councillors and local residents to consider the appropriate level of maintenance for the Jubilee Reserve, including seeking advice from the Berks Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust on suitable local wild flowers, and an appropriate grass cutting/maintenance programme for the area.
Picnic tables have now been installed on the playing field and the benches for the Jubilee Reserve will be constructed as soon as possible. A patch of stinging nettles has been sprayed with weed killer and the grass in this location will not be cut until the nettles have died.
It was unanimously agreed that the Clerk should circulate a draft resolution relating to the Parish Council’s future proposals for the land for formal resolution when all councillors are present in September. This may include the need to establish a working party containing both parish councillors and local residents to consider the appropriate level of maintenance for the Jubilee Reserve, including seeking advice from the Berks Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust on suitable local wild flowers, and an appropriate grass cutting/maintenance programme for the area.
Picnic tables have now been installed on the playing field and the benches for the Jubilee Reserve will be constructed as soon as possible. A patch of stinging nettles has been sprayed with weed killer and the grass in this location will not be cut until the nettles have died.
July 2016
Jubilee Reserve/playing field
The Clerk has contacted Natural England for guidance on the pros and cons to the village in continuing the process of setting up the land as a local nature reserve (LNR) and will prepare a report on options available to the Parish Council for the meeting in September. The area is now on a regular two week cut. The entrance has also been tidied up making the gate more accessible. PPC have received a grant of £1000 from the Doris Field Trust towards the purchase of two benches for the Jubilee Reserve (meadow) end of the field and two picnic tables for the playing field.
Widnell Park
Phase one of the clearance of vegetation at Widnell Park was completed and it's already looking brighter. The ttarmac and parking area have been sprayed and strimmed. The Chair had received a concern that the cut down laurels produced toxic fumes, which could prove dangerous to humans and animals. The RHS advised that the cyanide content would break down naturally in the process of composting and chippings from these bushes can be used for paths in the the allotments and the new woodland area once we start work on it. The money for the clearance came from the Gigaclear fund.
It was agreed that Cllrs Darby, Howard and Coleman would form a working party to develop a plan for the Jubilee Reserve and Widnell Park, which would be disseminated to the Parish and which would be considered further by the Parish Council. Cllr Coleman agreed to review the style of picnic table for general accessibility. Once agreed the order would be placed.
Jubilee Reserve/playing field
The Clerk has contacted Natural England for guidance on the pros and cons to the village in continuing the process of setting up the land as a local nature reserve (LNR) and will prepare a report on options available to the Parish Council for the meeting in September. The area is now on a regular two week cut. The entrance has also been tidied up making the gate more accessible. PPC have received a grant of £1000 from the Doris Field Trust towards the purchase of two benches for the Jubilee Reserve (meadow) end of the field and two picnic tables for the playing field.
Widnell Park
Phase one of the clearance of vegetation at Widnell Park was completed and it's already looking brighter. The ttarmac and parking area have been sprayed and strimmed. The Chair had received a concern that the cut down laurels produced toxic fumes, which could prove dangerous to humans and animals. The RHS advised that the cyanide content would break down naturally in the process of composting and chippings from these bushes can be used for paths in the the allotments and the new woodland area once we start work on it. The money for the clearance came from the Gigaclear fund.
It was agreed that Cllrs Darby, Howard and Coleman would form a working party to develop a plan for the Jubilee Reserve and Widnell Park, which would be disseminated to the Parish and which would be considered further by the Parish Council. Cllr Coleman agreed to review the style of picnic table for general accessibility. Once agreed the order would be placed.
May 2016
The sports field is no longer in use because of drainage concerns, and there is a need to clarify the position with regard to the area that was formerly part of it but was intended to form a nature reserve (Jubilee Reserve) and obtain all the information from the former councillor. There is also a need to consider future options for the sports field. The Parish Council agreed to accept the quote of an annual sum of £225 from a contractor to cut the sports field three or four times a year as necessary.
The sports field is no longer in use because of drainage concerns, and there is a need to clarify the position with regard to the area that was formerly part of it but was intended to form a nature reserve (Jubilee Reserve) and obtain all the information from the former councillor. There is also a need to consider future options for the sports field. The Parish Council agreed to accept the quote of an annual sum of £225 from a contractor to cut the sports field three or four times a year as necessary.
The area ticked over for the next couple of years, with general maintenance to keep the vegetation under control, but it wasn't until spring 2016, after Stan Hearn, the councillor who coordinated the work, had stepped down, that the new group of parish councillors met on site to discuss how the area could be better used to benefit the village.
July/August 2013
A quiet time, as far as work goes, as we leave the wildlife in peace for the summer. A cut was taken off the field, resulting in some twenty bales (big, round, plastic wrapped) of cattle fodder, which were exchanged for the cutting. The new gates and rails, and the 5 bar gate have had another coat of preservative.
A recent survey in conjunction with BBOWT has highlighted the following points. It seems we have a couple of very rare butterflies in the Brown Hairstreak and the Black Hairstreak, or, more accurately, potential habitat for the Black, one of Britain’s rarest. They are canopy dwellers, most at home in 25-30-year-old Blackthorn and the like. Brown Hairstreaks dwell much lower, in 3-5-year-old Blackthorn etc. A proper survey would be needed to confirm, but they are known to be in the area, and Blacks are often found near Browns. We are recommended to remove the laurel and the leylandii, and replace with native species. The ground where the laurel stands will need a bit of help to recover; this can be achieved by top dressing, and planting the right species. Opening up the pond to a lot more light would also be a great help to wildlife, as Great Crested Newts are known to frequent the pond. As regards flora, we have a bit of interesting stuff, to be encouraged by continuing thistle eradication and backed up by a seeding program. Spot treatment of the thistle and the ragwort in the field continues when weather permits, some ragwort in the margins being left, as it is a staple food source for the larvae of the Cinnabar Moth, which, along with the Ragwort Flea Beetle, help control the spread of this pernicious weed, and may assist in the local eradication thereof.
Please let the Parish Council know if you are concerned about the laurel (which it seems was planted by the MoD as screening for something) and the leylandii, before any action is taken. This is likely to be in weeks rather than months. The recently planted trees have been affected by the weather; a check shows we have lost 20 or so. Replacements will be considered later in the year. Oxfordshire Conservation Volunteers will be with us on the 1st of next month, please come along and join the party.
Here are some photos of the area in late summer.
A quiet time, as far as work goes, as we leave the wildlife in peace for the summer. A cut was taken off the field, resulting in some twenty bales (big, round, plastic wrapped) of cattle fodder, which were exchanged for the cutting. The new gates and rails, and the 5 bar gate have had another coat of preservative.
A recent survey in conjunction with BBOWT has highlighted the following points. It seems we have a couple of very rare butterflies in the Brown Hairstreak and the Black Hairstreak, or, more accurately, potential habitat for the Black, one of Britain’s rarest. They are canopy dwellers, most at home in 25-30-year-old Blackthorn and the like. Brown Hairstreaks dwell much lower, in 3-5-year-old Blackthorn etc. A proper survey would be needed to confirm, but they are known to be in the area, and Blacks are often found near Browns. We are recommended to remove the laurel and the leylandii, and replace with native species. The ground where the laurel stands will need a bit of help to recover; this can be achieved by top dressing, and planting the right species. Opening up the pond to a lot more light would also be a great help to wildlife, as Great Crested Newts are known to frequent the pond. As regards flora, we have a bit of interesting stuff, to be encouraged by continuing thistle eradication and backed up by a seeding program. Spot treatment of the thistle and the ragwort in the field continues when weather permits, some ragwort in the margins being left, as it is a staple food source for the larvae of the Cinnabar Moth, which, along with the Ragwort Flea Beetle, help control the spread of this pernicious weed, and may assist in the local eradication thereof.
Please let the Parish Council know if you are concerned about the laurel (which it seems was planted by the MoD as screening for something) and the leylandii, before any action is taken. This is likely to be in weeks rather than months. The recently planted trees have been affected by the weather; a check shows we have lost 20 or so. Replacements will be considered later in the year. Oxfordshire Conservation Volunteers will be with us on the 1st of next month, please come along and join the party.
Here are some photos of the area in late summer.
June photos - and a call for volunteers!
Below are some recent photos that show how the site is looking at the moment. Why not go and have a look for yourself? Or, even better, why not take up the challenge of joining Piddington’s own Green Gym - Widnell Park? This area of field and woodland on the outskirts of our village is gradually being transformed into a nature reserve and wildlife haven - see the updates below to find out more. A lot of work has been done on it already, both by villagers and by the Oxfordshire Conservation Volunteers, but much more is needed, as well as ongoing maintenance. If you find going to the gym far too boring, join the Widnell Park volunteers and give yourself a workout with a purpose. Email Stan to be added to the list.
June 2013
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Stan Hearn was at The Pantry on Saturday 8 June with lots of information about the hard work that has been done on this area, both by villagers and by the Oxfordshire Conservation Volunteers, to transform it into a nature and wildlife reserve, and about the interest taken in the site by BBOWT (Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust). |
May 2013
Several things to report this month.
(1) BBOWT (Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust) are keen to work with us developing the field and park into a wildflower meadow and nature reserve. They have visited the site and taken samples of the grasses, which are similar to those found in Meadow Farm, Blackthorn, an important piece of ancient meadowland, which BBOWT wish to protect. These grasses include Sweet Vernal Grass and Meadow Foxtail, 'good' grasses typically associated with good quality meadows. They indicate (along with the buttercup and vetch) that our meadow has some good potential. They have bid for funds from the Heritage Lottery Fund, and if this bid is successful we are hopeful that our relationship with them will be fruitful. You can find out more about BBOWT and Meadow Farm through this link: http://www.bbowt.org.uk/meadowfarm.
(2) The thistle which is in the far corners of the field will be sprayed in the next couple of weeks once the plants are slightly bigger.
(3) A number of walkways will be made around and possibly through the meadow in the next couple of weeks, which will be good news for dog walkers!
(4) Oxford Conservation Volunteers will be back on 1st September to do more hard work.
(5) Call for volunteers - if anyone is interested in helping with any of the future work planned for this revitalised village area, please contact Stan Hearn (01844 237147), who will start to compile a list of those wanting to be involved.
Finally, below are some very recent photos (taken on 18th May) of Widnell Park to whet your appetite! The first two are taken from more or less the same viewpoint as two of the photos taken in April. The second two show flowers blooming on ground cleared earlier this year.
Several things to report this month.
(1) BBOWT (Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust) are keen to work with us developing the field and park into a wildflower meadow and nature reserve. They have visited the site and taken samples of the grasses, which are similar to those found in Meadow Farm, Blackthorn, an important piece of ancient meadowland, which BBOWT wish to protect. These grasses include Sweet Vernal Grass and Meadow Foxtail, 'good' grasses typically associated with good quality meadows. They indicate (along with the buttercup and vetch) that our meadow has some good potential. They have bid for funds from the Heritage Lottery Fund, and if this bid is successful we are hopeful that our relationship with them will be fruitful. You can find out more about BBOWT and Meadow Farm through this link: http://www.bbowt.org.uk/meadowfarm.
(2) The thistle which is in the far corners of the field will be sprayed in the next couple of weeks once the plants are slightly bigger.
(3) A number of walkways will be made around and possibly through the meadow in the next couple of weeks, which will be good news for dog walkers!
(4) Oxford Conservation Volunteers will be back on 1st September to do more hard work.
(5) Call for volunteers - if anyone is interested in helping with any of the future work planned for this revitalised village area, please contact Stan Hearn (01844 237147), who will start to compile a list of those wanting to be involved.
Finally, below are some very recent photos (taken on 18th May) of Widnell Park to whet your appetite! The first two are taken from more or less the same viewpoint as two of the photos taken in April. The second two show flowers blooming on ground cleared earlier this year.
April 2013
Spring comes to Widnell Park.
Spring comes to Widnell Park.
March 2013
Oxford Conservation Volunteers continue the clearing programme in Widnell Park, 10 March.
Oxford Conservation Volunteers continue the clearing programme in Widnell Park, 10 March.
Oxford Conservation Volunteers take a well-earned break from clearing Widnell Park.
November 2012
Over two weekends, volunteers planted more than 100 trees on the wild side of the sportsfield in Widnell Park. The other half of the site will be maintained as a sportsfield, and is currently used for training by Launton Juniors FC.
Saplings including oak, horse chestnut and birch trees were donated by the Woodland Trust and villagers, and include an oak sapling grown from an acorn from a royal estate.
This small woodland area will help to transform this site into a nature reserve, an initiative launched by the Parish Council to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee year.
Over two weekends, volunteers planted more than 100 trees on the wild side of the sportsfield in Widnell Park. The other half of the site will be maintained as a sportsfield, and is currently used for training by Launton Juniors FC.
Saplings including oak, horse chestnut and birch trees were donated by the Woodland Trust and villagers, and include an oak sapling grown from an acorn from a royal estate.
This small woodland area will help to transform this site into a nature reserve, an initiative launched by the Parish Council to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee year.
October 2012
16th September saw the first visit of Oxfordshire Conservation Volunteers to the Park to start the clearance programme. You can read more about their work at Widnell Park here.
The task is to clear the wild, overgrown side of the Park, and to restore it to something similar to what it was about 40 years ago. Back then, we are informed, there was a path right around the pond, and an open area for woodland plants and flowers. If anyone in the village can actually remember what it was like, please contact us, so the restoration may be kept within the spirit of the original form. To continue with the clearance, we hope to instigate a village initiative one weekend in the not too distant future. There will be a variety of tasks, from cutting out undergrowth, thinning trees, etc., to making a bonfire to burn the resulting cuttings. Could be good fun. We can then put in place an on-going maintenance programme to try to keep the whole area more accessible and user friendly, while working towards a local area nature reserve or conservation area.
To this end, there are still some sites for more bird boxes if anyone is willing to donate one, donations can be marked and will be recorded, and more will become available as the area is cleared.
Moving on to the field, whilst the Conservation Volunteers were here, they removed the stile and replaced it with a gate. This has been a great help in allowing easier access from the Park into the field.
In the week beginning 5th November we should see the arrival of approximately 120 trees (as saplings) from the Woodland Trust. These will be planted in such a way as to indicate a separate area, as distinct from the playing pitches, with a copse or two for wildlife habitat. Trees can be dedicated and/or donated by villagers, at £6.00 per tree (£3.50 for the tree, and £2.50 for the deer guard and support stake). Plaques can be positioned by the trees, so you can come back and see how your tree is progressing. We will need a village initiative to complete the planting, so come and plant your trees, and help someone else plant theirs. There will be a powered post-hole borer on site, so you will not have to do any digging, just planting. More information will follow when we have a fixed date. Eradication of the Creeping Thistle and development of the Wild Flower Meadow is on-going.
16th September saw the first visit of Oxfordshire Conservation Volunteers to the Park to start the clearance programme. You can read more about their work at Widnell Park here.
The task is to clear the wild, overgrown side of the Park, and to restore it to something similar to what it was about 40 years ago. Back then, we are informed, there was a path right around the pond, and an open area for woodland plants and flowers. If anyone in the village can actually remember what it was like, please contact us, so the restoration may be kept within the spirit of the original form. To continue with the clearance, we hope to instigate a village initiative one weekend in the not too distant future. There will be a variety of tasks, from cutting out undergrowth, thinning trees, etc., to making a bonfire to burn the resulting cuttings. Could be good fun. We can then put in place an on-going maintenance programme to try to keep the whole area more accessible and user friendly, while working towards a local area nature reserve or conservation area.
To this end, there are still some sites for more bird boxes if anyone is willing to donate one, donations can be marked and will be recorded, and more will become available as the area is cleared.
Moving on to the field, whilst the Conservation Volunteers were here, they removed the stile and replaced it with a gate. This has been a great help in allowing easier access from the Park into the field.
In the week beginning 5th November we should see the arrival of approximately 120 trees (as saplings) from the Woodland Trust. These will be planted in such a way as to indicate a separate area, as distinct from the playing pitches, with a copse or two for wildlife habitat. Trees can be dedicated and/or donated by villagers, at £6.00 per tree (£3.50 for the tree, and £2.50 for the deer guard and support stake). Plaques can be positioned by the trees, so you can come back and see how your tree is progressing. We will need a village initiative to complete the planting, so come and plant your trees, and help someone else plant theirs. There will be a powered post-hole borer on site, so you will not have to do any digging, just planting. More information will follow when we have a fixed date. Eradication of the Creeping Thistle and development of the Wild Flower Meadow is on-going.