Descrição
The area is being transformed from a long runway surrounded by monotonous grassland into a country park with a variety of habitats. There's still much potential to be exploited by new species and it'll be interesting to track this process. Any lists are likely to be superseded, however, over 100 species have been reported to date (Aug 2022). Although in an increasingly developed and built-on district, it's a large open space that can sometimes feel like wilderness. It's a valuable green lung.
A stream with occasional ponds and reedbeds runs parallel to the site's eastern boundary and warblers (incl Felosa-malhada) are consistently reported here, in season.
Detalhes
Acesso
The eastern edge borders on a developed housing part of Hatfield; visitor parking not encouraged here. Private cars may use the Notcutts Garden Centre car park, there is pedestrian access nearby off Hatfield Road. Good bus routes pass along Hatfield Road/St Albans Road, giving access from Hatfield and St Albans City railway stations.
There are clear footpaths within the park, some of which are surfaced. Cycling is permitted, but wheelchairs may have difficulty off the surfaced paths.
Terreno e Habitat
Floresta , Árvores e arbustos dispersos , Campina , Cidade/Vila , Camas de juncoCondições
Plano , Paisagem aberta , Seco , PantanosoCaminho circular
Simé útil um telescópio?
Pode ser útilBoa temporada de observação de aves
Primavera , Durante todo o anoMelhor hora para visitar
PrimaveraRota
Estrada pavimentada , Caminho largo , Estrada não pavimentada , Caminho estreitoCaminho dificil
FácilAcessível por
Pé , Bicicleta , Cadeira de rodasAbrigo/plataforma deobservação de aves
NãoInformação extra
There are no cafes or toilets on site (but plenty of trees!), however, there are these facilities at Notcutts Garden Centre near the Smallford roundabout and there's a pub nearby.
Some areas are fenced off for livestock. Dogs must be on leads here.
An application to develop most of the site as a sand and gravel quarry has been rejected by Hertfordshire County Council and an appeal has been dismissed. The developers could rework their application and try again.
