Barfield Allotments Nature Park
Barfield Allotments Nature Park is a small Site of Local Importance for Nature Conservation in Whetstone in the London Borough of Barnet.[1][2] It was formerly used as allotments, and when these were abandoned there were plans to turn it into a formal play area, but this met with local opposition when slow worms and common lizards were found, showing its value for wildlife. A small playground was installed in the north-east corner, while the remainder became a wildlife site.[3]
Some plum and apple trees remain from the time when it was allotments, but it has now changed from grassland to scrub. The site has been partially cleared to create a species-rich mosaic, and a native hedgerow has been planted along the boundary. A pond and marshy area have also been created for amphibians, taking advantage of a natural spring.[4]
The entrance to the site is in the playground off Barfield Avenue, but there is no public access, apart from school parties by arrangement.[1]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b "Barfield Allotments Nature Park". Greenspace Information for Greater London. 2006. Archived from the original on 2012-12-23.
- ^ "iGiGL – helping you find London's parks and wildlife sites". Greenspace Information for Greater London. 2006. Archived from the original on November 29, 2012.
- ^ Hewlett, Jan; et al. (1997). Nature Conservation in Barnet. London Ecology Unit. p. 95. ISBN 1-871045-27-4.
- ^ Barfield Nature Reserve noticeboard