‘Wild’ Board Unveiled in North Camp

A colourful interpretation board was installed in the outdoor classroom area at the Queen’s Road Recreation Ground wildlife demonstration garden this week.

The board shows the wide range of different habitats being created by the community at the garden. The attractive 'fish-eye style' panorama includes 27 watercolour images of wildlife, by local artist, Andy Bardell, that will be attracted to the garden.

The garden is the outcome of an idea of the Rushmoor Urban Wildlife Group after concerns were raised about the diminishing levels of wildlife in the area. The garden has been designed and planted by the community, helped by experts in the wildlife group, and with financial assistance from Rushmoor Borough Council.

Habitats being created at the garden include two wildflower meadows, a marsh area with a boardwalk across it, a cereal patch, a hedgerow, a shrubbery and a sensory area. The native plants should attract a wide variety of birds, butterflies and other wildlife to the garden.

It was important to use 'eco-friendly' materials where possible. The classroom surfacing is made from recycled car tyres and the boardwalk has been built from 'plastic wood' made from industrial plastic waste and used food containers.

Cllr Nigel Baines, Cabinet member and enthusiastic supporter of local Agenda 21, said: " We are delighted with the finished board which was based on ideas by the community. It should serve as an excellent educational resource and show local residents how they can manage their garden for the benefit of local wildlife whilst increasing interest and enjoyment for themselves."

Les Murrell, Strategy Co-ordinator at Rushmoor Council added: "The Rushmoor Urban Wildlife Group is hoping that the board will encourage people of all ages to appreciate our wildlife. Also, if local residents follow the ideas demonstrated in their own gardens it should lead to an increase in the once common species that have been in decline in recent years"

If you would like a free guide to wildlife gardening or are interested in joining the Rushmoor Urban Wildlife Group and supporting its projects please contact Les Murrell on 01252 398538.

The public wildlife demonstration garden is part of a much larger initiative by the Council to regenerate North Camp and improve Queen's Road Recreation Ground.

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