Collective effort ‘works wonders’ to revive fields
Some 4,000 square metres of open space in central Bath have been transformed thanks to the dedication of local volunteers.
Lyncombe Hill Fields, adjacent to Alexandra Park and Beechen Cliff School, now boasts thousands of saplings, resurfaced paths, a bug hotel and two tiny forests.
“This project is the perfect example of local people coming together to preserve and enhance their natural environment,” said Bath MP Wera Hobhouse on a recent visit. “This initiative is working wonders.”
Since September 2020, the land has been managed under licence by the Friends of Lyncombe Hill Fields, a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, led by three unpaid company directors - Maurice Tennenhaus, Anita Breeze and Chris Kinchin-smith.
“Please visit this beautiful green space to enjoy it for yourself. My warmest congratulations to the energetic team led by Anita, Maurice and Chris,” said Wera.
“It was a pleasure to be able to show Wera all the improvements our
volunteers have made so far, and to tell her about our plans for the future of this site,” said Maurice.
On average, 12 people join the maintenance team on each session which are scheduled weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays from 10am to midday.
There is usually a selection of work on each day so you can choose what to do and they often change at ‘half time’ to vary the pace.
There is also a flora-and-fauna team
and a bird-watching crew.
“So far, our volunteers have, amongst other things, planted 2,140 saplings with 17 native species, resurfaced paths, built a bug hotel, cleared 500sqm of invasive brambles to enable the siting of two tiny forests and mowed five acres of pasture to promote wildflower growth,” said Maurice.
“During the Covid-19 pandemic, our green spaces have become even more vital to our wellbeing. Our volunteers
tell us how much they value the time they spend here, and it’s gratifying to see more and more visitors taking advantage of this space.”
The not-for-profit company is sponsored by the Widcombe Association, Greenway Lane Social Committee, Greenway Lane Area Residents’ Forum and Bear Flat Residents’ Association. Additionally, the Friends of Alexandra Park and Bathscape Partnership have given their support too.
Lyncombe Hill Fields is a real success story for everyone involved, including of course the public who benefit from this green landscape in Bath, according to Dan Merrett of Bathscape Partnership.
“Bathscape aims to ensure that Bath and its landscape are more recognised, better managed and actively enjoyed by all,” he said.
New volunteers are encouraged to contact lyncombehillfields@gmail.com if they want to get involved.