Introduction to Natural History of Millennium Park Project
The Millennium Park came into being when the Fishpool Brook development was proposed. One of the requirements of the planning application was the provision of some recreational area adjacent to the estate.
Initially the County Council landscaped it and provided shrubs and trees mostly at the back of the land (furthest from the road). The park was later adopted by the Parish Council. The Council set up the Millennium Group as an independent organisation which raised £12,000. It was responsible for the ideas and execution of what you see today with Parish Council approval and support. This includes the giant sundial and the enormous thrushes’ eggs.
The Millennium Group planted some wild flowers along the roadside and in the woodland and scrub at the back. Additional tree planting was also done. Native wild flower seeds were sown at the Paudy Lane end of the park. You may also notice some cultivated species which have appeared, for example daffodils.
The aim of the project is to record as many species of flora and fauna as possible through the seasons, and hopefully over a few years to identify how the species change over time.
As well as the flowers, note is being kept of birds, insects and other animals which benefit from the habitat.
The photographs are samples of the trees and flowers recorded to date. I hope that I have correctly identified all of the species. If anyone with greater knowledge can advise on any errors it would be much appreciated. Also the photographs were taken as seen without concern for artistic merit!
I meet quite a lot of local dog walkers and appreciate their input to the records. They have noted birds such as woodpeckers and sparrowhawk.
