Burpham Court Farm Nature Reserve

A proposal for a new nature reserve at Burpham Court Farm sets out how the land can be transformed into a space to enjoy nature and improve biodiversity. 

The plans include enhancing nearly 50 hectares of land to create a variety of habitats for Guildford's wildlife. It will also provide more access to the countryside for residents and visitors to enjoy. 

About the site

Burpham Court Farm is 3 km northeast of the centre of Guildford along the River We.  It adjoins the Riverside Nature Reserve.  The site includes areas of pasture, marshy grassland, woodland and wetland features. Currently the site is not accessible to the public.

 The proposal

The proposal is to enhance the site as nature reserve. The proposal is to open up access to the site.  This will provide opportunities to enjoy our local landscapes and wildlife. Key features of the proposed nature reserve include:

·  Over 3.5 km of new footpaths and cycle routes.

· Extra trees and planting, including hedgerow restoration and maintaining ancient and veteran trees

· Four new entrances linking to external footpaths, greenspaces and neighbouring residential areas

· Uninterrupted areas for wildlife

· Enhancement of wetland pools and reedbeds for flocks of winter wading birds

· Ongoing management to maintain biodiversity in wetland areas, wet woodland, and wildflower meadows.

· New picnic areas, seating, and signage to help people engage and learn about local nature

· A new car park.

Timeline

Works on the nature reserve are expected to start in 2024.

Fish pass and wildlife channel

The Environment Agency  has completed work on creating a natural bypass channel through Burpham Court Farm. This is to allow fish to migrate around Old Bucks weir.   More information

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