The Ravine

CAN YOU HELP US IMPROVE THE WATER COURSE IN MEERSBROOK PARK?

Help us slow the flow and improve nature in the park

MPUT has been working with SCC ecologists and sustainable water management team, residents, and councillors.

The problem:
Deep stream banks at the top posing risk of falls/injuries.

Overcrowding of trees at the top and holly/laurel in the mid part of the ravine causing darkness, poor plant life on banks and increased silt into stream.

Regular overflow of the lower stream due to poor drain infrastructure causing flood damage in park and outside park.

Proposals:
1. Upper park:

  • The plantation of trees at the top have become very crowded, but when originally planted there was always an intention to thin them. Thinning them now will help some trees to mature while allowing tree seedlings to grow up naturally beneath them. The extra light and space will help wildflowers and shrubs to grow on the banks of the stream.
  • Widen the banks of the upper stream to reduce the risk of injuries.
  • Create a natural wet area within the top of the plantation to help slow the flow and encourage wildlife.
  • Using cuttings from the thinned trees we plan to create dead hedges to help flowers and shrubs establish on the new banks.

2. Replace the broken drain at the bottom of the ravine.

3. Remove some of the Holly and Laurel in the middle of the
ravine and create some natural dams to slow the flow of
water.

CAN YOU HELP? * WE NEED VOLUNTEERS *
First workday is on Saturday 9th March 2024 starting at 10.30am
Please register by emailing lizziemartinez2@yahoo.co.uk