It is that time of year when we start to notice the hedgerows around Binfield either because the blackthorn is flowering or because they have been cut back before the start of the bird nesting season. We have an old field boundary down one side of our garden and as I write this there are a flock of redwings fattening up on ivy berries in the hedgerow before they begin their migration north.
It is distressing to see hedgerows being cut back. In some areas this is essential to maintain sightlines, ensure public safety or to upgrade a right of way. We also have a few examples of hedges around the parish that have become dominated by a single species (e.g. blackthorn) and where a severe haircut may be the best way to give other species the chance to come back. However, there are some positive hedgerow-related things being done by the parish and borough councils and by the environment group.
Binfield Parish Council (BPC) is only responsible for the hedgerows on a small number of green-spaces across the parish and they have recently modified the contract for the management of those green-spaces to reduce the frequency and severity of cuts. BPC is also currently looking at going for green-flag status for Wicks Green, which will almost certainly be a catalyst for work to improve biodiversity in the hedgerows and copses.
Binfield Environment Group (BEG) has already identified hedgerows as a project area and last year we planted suitable species to fill some of the gaps in the hedgerows around Wicks Green and to try and increase species richness. I have just noticed that despite the long dry spell immediately after we planted them, the majority appear to be growing well. The environment group would like to do more to fill some of the gaps in the network of hedgerows around the parish, but this will require the cooperation of the landowners and a significant amount of saplings and labour.
BFC have set a couple of hedgerow specific objectives in their biodiversity action plan and with the help of parish councils and local environment groups are on track to meet the target for planting new hedgerows. BFC are also working with developers to add to existing hedgerows as new developments go ahead. I have suggested to BFC that hedgerows should be a specific focus area in 2022 and will be discussing this with them later in the month. BFC are also looking at how the UK government’s biodiversity net gain principles will be adopted locally, and I have already asked them to ensure that compensating for the destruction of hedgerows and small collections of trees is reflected in the guidance they produce.
In Piglittle Meadow (Amen Corner North), the developers planted native trees alongside existing hedgerows to bulk them out and fill gaps. When BFC take over the management of the site they want to further extend the hedgerows and copses and have had an initial conversation with BPC and BEG about how we might involve the local community in this.
If you are walking around the parish take a moment to stop and enjoy some of our hedgerows as they start to spring into life. You may be lucky enough to see or hear some of the nature that uses them.