Recently, we were delighted to be able to donate some of our Type 1 aggregate to a wonderful local cause. Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve in Bristol is a fantastic community asset and a hub of biodiversity, holding great ecological value. The aggregate donated by B&A Group will be used to help fill in parts of the path that had become impassable due to excessive mud caused by heavy rain and increased footfall during the pandemic.
HISTORY OF OLD SNEED PARK NATURE RESERVE
The history of the land dates back to 1274, when William the Conqueror gifted it to the Bishops of Worcester and it was enclosed as a deer park. The estate was bordered by Durdham Downs and the River Avon. In the 1500s, Henry VIII gave the estate to statesman Ralph Sadler, who served as Privy Councillor, Secretary of State and ambassador to Scotland. Following a special Act of Parliament passed in 1853, the land was sold off and houses and roads were built, leaving just 6.6 hectares of nature reserve.
When planning permission for more housing was refused, the land was given to Bristol City Council in 1984 for use as a Public Open Space.Old Sneed Nature Park Reserve was established in 1995.
ABOUT OLD SNEED PARK NATURE RESERVE
The reserve is situated less than three miles from Bristol city centre – a stunning site with wildflower meadows, woodland paths and a beautiful lake with thriving wildlife. The ancient grasslands on the site have never been ploughed or fertilised, making them a haven for wildlife. Old Sneed Park is home to over 130 different species of flowering plant, 17 different species of butterfly and more than 40 species of birds.
The Friends of Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve aims to educate the public through nature conservation. They are a voluntary group, undertaking vital conservation work and fundraising for the nature reserve, working alongside Bristol City Council to manage and maintain the space.
Prior to the pandemic, the group held a variety of community events and hopes to resume these when the infection risk is low. Working parties, where community volunteers undertake essential conversation work, continued to run, allowing the local community opportunities to contribute their efforts to protecting the space. Volunteers run guided walks, fundraising social events and special activities for children, including pond dipping afternoons, bug hunts and BioBlitz.
We’re so happy to be able to support the vital work of the Friends of Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve, providing the local community with a pleasant and nurturing place to come, with opportunities to observe and learn about the natural world.
The committee is currently fundraising to renew the path. To find out more about Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve and to support their work, visit www.oldsneedparknaturereserve.org.
