Hertfordshire News, Comment and Bulletin articles
This month
Tyttenhanger Inquiry - latest news from the Steering Group
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The website has just received updates from both Robin Morden and Graham White and our thanks go to them for keeping us well informed. Both have provided information on the Sand Martin nest site issue and Robin included a list of members of the Steering Group, which may be of interest to Bird Club members.
Tyttenhanger Restoration Steering Group:
Richard Greaves - Herts CC - Planning Officer, County Development Unit
Trevor James - Herts CC - Author of Original Tyttenhanger Report
Andy McIntosh - Herts CC - Units Restoration Officer
Jim Terry - Herts Bird Club
Graham White - HMWT
A representative of Lafarge/Redlands
Graham White has provided an official statement regarding the Sand Martin bank:
Two site meetings have been held in the last fortnight, with Lafarge, HCC Minerals section, Trevor James and myself in attendance. Regular meetings will be held during this year as the final extraction and restoration proceed.
Birders will see a lot of changes as the year progresses. Lafarge are currently draining the lakes in preparation for extraction of the bridleway, which will start in about a month. They have removed the steep faces of the bridleway so that Sand Martins will not nest. Alternative banks are being sought and some work in the coming week or two will attempt to create a new face elsewhere. Trevor and I have identified areas of importance that should be retained if possible. The aim will be to carefully develop the restoration as the extraction continues. The bottom of the pit under the bridleway will require clay lining to prevent water loss. The biggest problem may be to judge the final water level in order to create wader islands etc at the correct level. Some re-adjustment may be required at a later time.
If anyone has any questions, suggestions or comments, both Trevor and I will be happy to try and answer or pass on. I can be contacted at the Wildlife Trust on 01727 858901 or graham@hertswt.cix.co.uk