Rare Habitats and New Beginnings at Stones Farm Countryside Park
Today, I joined a small group of volunteers and fellow
residents from Bapchild to take part in the first nature survey of Stones Farm
Countryside Park.
Although this valuable green space and important countryside gap has been open
for public enjoyment for some time, it has only recently been acquired by Swale
Borough Council. The park has been named after the farm that once occupied the
site, located next to the Spring Acres development for those unfamiliar with
the Stones Farm name.
The aim of the survey is to establish a baseline record of the park’s current
biodiversity, documenting its flora and fauna, including birds, bees, and other
insects. Follow-up surveys will be carried out over time to monitor changes and
build an ongoing ecological record.
The wider open space, already supported by a network of
pathways, may gradually evolve with the introduction of additional shrubs and
brambles to encourage greater biodiversity. Some areas of grassland will be
left to grow naturally and managed on a rotational basis each year. This work
will be overseen by the council’s park ranger, Kris Staples, who is keen to
involve local residents and will be organising a range of upcoming community
events.
What many people may not realise is that the park is home to
some particularly significant natural features. These include a rare chalk
stream and an even rarer area of wet woodland, both fed by St Thomas Becket
Spring—a natural water source that also supplies Tonge Pond. The spring is
believed to have been named due to its proximity to the historic Watling Street
and its use by pilgrims travelling to Canterbury.
The site also plays an important role in supporting nearby
protected habitats, including the ecologically significant Thames, Medway and
Swale Estuaries Ramsar Site.
The brief survey recorded around 26 bird species, along with
beetles, three types of mining bees, and five varieties of bumblebees, among
other wildlife. I’m sure there will be much more to come as we progress through
the year.
If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved in future events, you
can visit the new Friends of Stones Farm Country Park Facebook page.
Andy Hudson
Sittingbourne.Me