Natural heritage awards announced

Released on 08/07/2005

South Cambridgeshire's unique natural heritage is being recognised at a special award ceremony.

Seven outstanding schemes have been recognised by the South Cambridgeshire Natural Heritage Awards for their achievements in biodiversity enhancement and conservation of natural heritage.

Nominations were invited earlier in the year and at 6:30pm on Tuesday 12 July, the winners will receive their awards from Councillor Cicely Murfitt, chairman of South Cambridgeshire District Council at a special awards ceremony at South Cambridgeshire District Council's offices, Cambourne Business Park.

Councillor Jane Healey, portfolio holder for conservation, sustainability and community planning said, "South Cambridgeshire is under intense pressure from developments in both the agricultural landscape and new settlements. In an era of new development it's important to foster the protection and public enjoyment of our diverse and fragile local character. It these schemes which make our district such an attractive place to live and work."

National Heritage Award Winners

Hinxton Wetland Project (large scheme) - 17 acres of grazing land recontoured for wet woodland; dry and wet grassland; marginal aquatic habitats; bat roost; otter holts; 10,000 trees and a floodplain for the River Cam. A new footpath and a community conservation group established

Conservation Meadow, Steeple Morden (small scheme) - wildflower seeds sown in 1988 and now over 34 flower species recorded. Paths and meadow annually mown and cut providing an attractive visitor walk.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: for high achievement in biodiversity and conservation of natural heritage

Harston Mill (large scheme) - landscaped areas for parkland, native trees and wildflower meadows; car park and sustainable urban drainage system (SUD) to filter surface water.

Lolworth Meadow (small scheme) - created on a former allotment. Sown and managed by local residents along with a small orchard of traditional apples trees.
COMMENDED: for achievement in biodiversity and conservation of natural heritage

Little Shelford Riverside Walk - a small circular surfaced path to the River Cam's banks which have been stabilised using hazel faggots; a viewing platform and seat; excavated ad replanted ice pond; native hedge.

Ruddery Pit, Guilden Morden - discovery of pyramidal orchids led to it being managed as an unofficial nature reserve with an interpretation board. Rabbit proof fencing erected; bramble, thistle and scrub managed. Adjacent land fenced for sheep.

Tween Towns Woods, Guilden and Steeple Morden - millennium woodland planting by local children and volunteers and memorial seats.