In January 2009 Hampshire County Council declared seven sites as official nature reserves. Three in our area; the Whiteley Woods, the Bishop's Waltham Rail Path and Manor Farm Country Park will now be recognised as nature havens and protected from development.

Gaining Local Nature Reserve status for - Gull Coppice, Round Coppice and Berry Coppice will really raise their profile and show that we have some pretty amazing sites and wildlife. The sites have demonstrated that they have important wildlife and habitats, are open to the public, are used by schools and are well used popular sites.

The three woodlands have a combined area of 23 hectares and are home to all kinds of plants, trees and wildlife such as butterflies, birds and reptiles.

Local councillors, schools and residents are thrilled with the news.
Whiteley Primary School often uses Gull Coppice in the Whiteley Woods for things like science projects and enhancing the School curriculum.

Last Updated on Friday, 30 December 2011 17:39