PLECK MEADOW

Pleck Meadow beginnings and the HEAL Project.

Pleck Meadow was acquired by Hyndburn Borough Council in 2018 and following the positive results of a consultation in June 2022, a management plan run by the Health & Environmental Action Lancashire (HEAL) Project (funded by the Green Recovery Challenge Fund) was put into effect.

On the 8th August 2022, Pleck Meadow was cut using a compact tractor to increase wildflower biodiversity and to make way for further management. Cutting and removing the vegetation removes nutrients, creating a low nutrient soil which benefits our native wildflowers. A large border of grass was left around the site to support deer and to provide cover for smaller animals like rodents and amphibians.

More work was done on Monday 15th August 2022 using traditional scything techniques and a green hay transfer has also be done using hay from the nearby Slate Pits Meadow which has a good wildflower diversity. The hay will contain seeds that will increase plant diversity on Pleck Meadow.

Grassland surveys and pH testing have been done on the site to best inform the management plans.

Plans began on the 24th October 2022 to create a new path from Arden Hall. The path included several gates and a bridge over Pleck Brook. The works also included fence and other path repairs in the area. The new path was officially open on 17th March 2023 during an opening walk attended by locals schools, HBC members, and the Mayor of Hyndburn, Cllr Abdul Khan, who performed a ribbon cutting on the new bridge.

The paths will increase accessibility to Peel Park and the Coppice LNR and allow for visitors to take a stroll through Pleck Meadow. It will also benefit future conservation activities such as scything courses, survey training and species transects.

A wetland habitat has also been constructed to benefit plant, invertebrate and amphibian species. It was constructed in partnership with the Ribble Rivers Trust to reduce erosion on public footpaths and increase amphibian activity on the site. Amphibians are the most threatened vertebrate class which makes any action to conserve them vital. They also provide vital natural flood management as they slow water down the site, prevent flooding at lower parts of the river.

Continuation of work with the Peel Park Pollinators Project!

Starting April 3rd, a new project will begin on the site to continue the great work that has been accomplished already. Funded by the LEF and Windfall Fund, the Peel Park Pollinators project will be working to protect and improve pollinator populations and habitats across the site.

Several meadow cuts are planned to take place to further reduce soil nutrients and increase wildflower diversity. Wildflower planting will also work towards improving diversity on the site.

Get involved!

We have a weekly volunteer session at Peel Park and the Coppice Local Nature Reserve, every Monday from 10am - 1pm.  Come along and get involved with a range of conservation activities, learn new skills, meet people, keep fit and help wildlife.  To find out more email robert.gabryszak@prospectsfoundation.org.uk, telephone 01254 230348 or call into the Prospects Foundation Environment Centre at 54 Broadway, Accrington.

As well as the weekly sessions, we also hold walks, events and training opportunities, please take a look at our events calendar to find out more.