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?
Yes and No!
Dogs on short leads will be allowed on the footpaths of the reserve in the main field (Townend Field) throughout the year, except when the sheep are grazing. A notice will be displayed to make this clear.
There will be no dogs at all allowed in the lower field (Long Carr) as this is a particularly wildlife-sensitive area. We will be installing a gate between the two fields and there will be signage to remind dog walkers of this.
The policy on dogs will be carefully monitored and reviewed as necessary by the trustees. Thank you for your cooperation with this.
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?
We now have a volunteer co-ordinator and a wonderful team of volunteers, which we are always looking to add to! Please register your interest. You can be involved as much or as little as you would like – we just really appreciate the support!
Volunteering
To secure the financial stability of the Upper Ouse Conservation Trust to carry out essential maintenance and improvements to the site longer term, we are always looking for donations and funding. (link to donations page)
Make a donation
Another way that you can get involved is by becoming a member of the Upper Ouse Conservation Trust. All of the details of this can be found here:
How you can help
Will the site be accessible?
We will be installing a ‘mobility kissing gate,’ which allows for the majority of wheelchair users to be able to manoeuvre onto the site. Currently the paths will be mown grass, but we are aiming to make the entrance area flatter so that people can at least enjoy being on the reserve. This is dependant upon funds, so please do help us if you are able to, as we want as many people as possible to enjoy Townend Field Nature Reserve.
Are you accepting business sponsorship?
If you have a business and are interested in sponsorship, we would love to hear from you! Please get in touch with us at info@uoct.org.uk to discuss this further.
