Work Rest and Play

What are some typical examples of brownfield sites? Brownfield sites encompass a variety of land types, often those with a history of industrial, agricultural, or urban use that has led to their current vacant or derelict state. Examples include abandoned industrial areas like oil refineries , vacant demolition sites, including those from historical events such as wartime bombing , quarries, abandoned industrial areas and spoil tips, railway embankments, canals, and road verges. Areas of waste ground and even managed landscapes like amenity grassland (mown lawns) can also be classified as brownfield. How does the Phase 1 Habitat Survey classify vegetation on brownfield sites ? The Phase 1 Habitat Survey uses specific classifications for vegetation found on brownfield sites. Short, patchy plant associations typical of derelict urban sites, quarries, and railway ballast are classified as " Ephemeral/short perennial ". A broader category associated with brownfield habitats is ...

What kind of wildlife is typically found on brownfield sites? Brownfield sites can host a surprising variety of wildlife. This includes a range of plants, from early-successional species like colt's-foot and rosebay willowherb to flowering plants that provide nectar, and even orchids in some instances. Invertebrates are particularly abundant, including various bees, solitary wasps, jumping spiders , and beetles. Reptiles such as slow-worms and common lizards , amphibians like newts and common frogs, and birds like black redstarts and little ringed plovers can also be found. Mammals such as hedgehogs , small mammals, bats, and dormice may also utilise these sites. Why are brownfield sites particularly good for invertebrates? Brownfield sites offer several beneficial features for invertebrates. They often have abundant flowering plants which are excellent nectar sources. Bare ground , rubble, and exposed concrete provide warm areas for basking, foraging, and burrowing. Additio...

What are "brownfield" sites in the context of the Sidmouth Nature project? In the Sidmouth Nature project , brownfield sites refer to areas that have been influenced by human activity but still offer opportunities for nature to survive, and in some cases, thrive. These sites range from actively managed parks and gardens to areas where human intervention is minimal, allowing for natural regeneration . The project identified and surveyed 15 such sites in Sidmouth.  How were the brownfield sites in Sidmouth categorised? The 15 surveyed sites in Sidmouth were divided into three broad categories: Managed Sites (Parks and Gardens), Maintained Sites (Green Spaces), and Minimal Sites (Lanes and Waysides). This categorisation reflects the level of human intervention and management at each site. What are "Managed Sites - Parks and Gardens" in Sidmouth? These are brownfield sites, primarily five in number, that are actively managed as gardens or parkland areas. Four of these...

Are brownfield sites important for biodiversity in Sidmouth? Yes, the survey records strongly indicate that brownfield sites are highly important for biodiversity in the Sidmouth area . Despite making up only 30% of the surveyed sites, brownfields were home to 64.1% of all species recorded across all sites. This significant figure demonstrates their substantial value to the local natural environment. Which groups of species benefit most from brownfield sites in Sidmouth? Brownfield sites in Sidmouth are particularly valuable for several species groups. Mammals show the highest percentage of species recorded on brownfields at 85.7%, followed closely by Birds at 76.4% and Flowering Plants at 69.1%. Fungi and Lichen, Non-flowering Plants, and Other animal life forms also have a majority of their recorded species present on these sites. Do brownfield sites in Sidmouth support species typically associated with other habitats? Yes, the analysis shows that brownfield sites in Sidmouth supp...

What are some of the main public green spaces in Sidmouth? Sidmouth boasts several significant public green spaces. Connaught Gardens , located on Peak Hill , is a historic site with diverse plant collections, including a unique Cretaceous Arboretum project, and serves as a venue for community events. The Byes Riverside Park is a large parkland area along the River Sid , managed for wildlife conservation and public access. Town parks and gardens, encompassing Blackmore Gardens , the Parish Churchyard , the Bowling Green , and the Fortfield, offer various features like decorative planting, historical elements, and habitats for specific species like waxcap fungi and lichen . What is the historical significance of Connaught Gardens? Connaught Gardens has a rich history dating back to around 1820 when a marine villa was first constructed on the site. The land was acquired by the local council in 1930 and officially opened to the public in 1934 by the Duke of Connaught , Queen Victoria...

What makes Bickwell Valley a significant area? Bickwell Valley is significant due to its combination of architectural heritage and natural beauty. It's located on the western edge of Sidmouth within a designated conservation area in the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The valley features large detached villas from the late 19th and early 20th centuries nestled within a natural hollow landscape with mature trees and gardens. Its environmental and historical importance is underscored by its conservation status and initiatives like the Sid Valley Biodiversity Group's efforts to address runoff issues in the Bickwell Brook catchment. It's also known as a rich area for wild plants, with 70 species recorded in a biodiversity survey. What is the historical background of Dunscombe Manor and Farm? Dunscombe Manor and Dunscombe Farm have deep historical roots. Dunscombe Manor is thought to have been part of the ancient Domesday manor of "Selcombe" or ...