The Upper Ouse Conservation Trust
FAQs
When can I get onto the Nature Reserve?
We are working hard behind the scenes to make this happen as soon as possible; one of our aims is for the community to access the Nature Reserve and we remain committed to this. However, there is a lot of work to be done to make this happen - footpaths, proper entrances, signage, insurance and some important decisions to be made around the route of footpaths etc. Please see our social media and blog pages for updates and we will let you know once everyone can come into the reserve and enjoy being in nature! We believe it will be well worth waiting for!
Want to help? Your donations and/or time volunteering can really make a difference to this crucial stage!
Volunteering Make a donation here
Will dogs be allowed on the reserve?
This will be a policy decided by the members with advice from conservation experts. It is however likely that dogs will be allowed to accompany their owners on the footpaths on short leads. This would probably be reviewed from time to time dependent on wildlife nesting seasons, weather etc.
What is a permissive footpath?
A footpath which has been outlined by the land owners (hopefully UOCT!) giving permission for people to use it. One of our aims is to enable access into the land as a nature reserve, but allows us the flexibility to reroute this if needed (for example if there are rare nesting birds along the path.)
Would the school be able to build a classroom on their field?
No. The land isn't being gifted to the school, as this would mean gifting it to the council which would then be out of the trust's control. We would draw up a lease agreement with the school for the use of an agreed section as a school playing field. This lease would include a clause ensuring that no building work whatsoever would be allowed on the field. Mr Oswald (headteacher) is in agreement with this and does not anticipate a situation where it would be needed for a classroom - they just desperately need the outdoor space!
How can I get involved?
The best way to help us at the moment is by donating as much as you can to help us with our initial set-up costs for things such as gates, fencing, sign-posts and conveyancing fees etc. You can also apply to be a member, giving you a vote on decisions made by UOCT.
How you can help
