In the February edition of the newsletter Fiona McIntyre (Volunteer Officer) outlined our ambitious plans to further transform a bramble thicket at the rear of Costons Lane Nature Reserve into a woodland-themed nature space. The vision is to create a natural amphitheatre with a stretch tent cover, creating a versatile outdoor venue that can be used year-round, regardless of the weather.
It was my privilege to lead the first volunteer session focusing on this area. My brief: to clear an area thick with brambles and wild rose in preparation for work on the amphitheatre area. The timing was crucial, to deter any birds from nesting in the area, which would delay any further works until the autumn.
Despite the early-morning drizzle and chilling wind, an excellent team of volunteers turned out, with the majority being first timers. Undeterred by the endless wall of brambles in front of us, the group split into two teams, to create two paths into the area. On the way, we made some discoveries – a rotting metal tank, no doubt from allotment days, and a large bank of earth, possibly from the excavation of the pond. While all this was going on, volunteers had time to clear the areas around the red kite feeding station, and the disease-resistant Elm (Ulmus spp.), planted in memory of local music producer and entrepreneur Jamal Edwards.
After about 90 minutes of lopping, slashing and bashing, the two paths converged, and we set about opening out a vaguely circular area. The shape was partly dictated by an extremely boggy patch on one side and the mound of earth we had uncovered at the back of the patch.
Midday is break time, and we were joined by some other visitors, including one very enthusiastic junior naturalist who rapidly found both male and female smooth newts (Lissotriton vulgaris) in the bathtub pond. Fortified by Lorna’s hot drinks and Elaine’s irresistible flapjacks, we continued into the afternoon. By the end of the session, and in glorious sunshine, we had created a substantial flat area – mission accomplished!
I’d like to wholeheartedly thank the volunteers who gave up part of their Saturday to make such an impact, particularly those who were there for the first time, as bramble-bashing is surely not the easiest of jobs (but it might be the prickliest). I really hope to see all of you there again soon.
If you’ve been inspired by EWG’s achievements in turning Costons from a water-logged abandoned allotment into a thriving urban oasis for nature, do join us for our next volunteer session (details at the end of the newsletter). You could even consider taking on the role of Costons Lane Nature Reserve Manager. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of this special space and make a real difference in the Greenford community. If you’re passionate about wildlife and creating inclusive green spaces – or if you know someone who might be – we’d love to hear from you. This volunteer role will involve coordinating activities, working with our community outreach officer to build partnerships with local groups, and helping to welcome more Greenford residents into the reserve. For all details about the role and how to apply, please see our webpage.
Emily Gardner
