The Knapp and Papermill nature reserve, near Alfrick, will be closed from Monday 14th September until Friday 9th October. During this time, major engineering work will stabilise the bank between the main access track and the Leigh Brook more than 30 metres below it.
The Knapp and Papermill closes for 4 weeks
Big Meadow at The Knapp & Papermill by Paul Lane
A popular nature reserve will be closed for four weeks as vital engineering work takes place to repair an access track.
The crack in the track at The Knapp and Papermill by Dominique Cragg
Since a large crack appeared in the track three years ago, the team at Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, the owners of the reserve, have been unable to get vehicles onto the site, hampering their ability to manage this important Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Rob Allen, reserves team leader, explained “It’s been immensely frustrating for our team that we’ve been unable to take tractors or livestock onto the meadows at The Knapp and Papermill for the past three years. Without regular hay cuts and grazing, we risk the huge numbers of wildflowers being outcompeted by more vigorous grasses.
“We’ve also been unable to get new signage on site and have been unable to remove debris after flood events.
“The track sits high above the Leigh Brook so the engineering works will involve stone gabions, steel rods and stabilising membranes to ensure the security of the track, and the adjacent road, for many years to come.”
Work to cut down trees on the steep slope above the track took place last autumn. The trees were coppiced, which involves cutting them almost to the floor but means that they will grow back. This growth will provide important habitats for wildlife and will be managed on rotation so the trees don’t get too tall or heavy for the bank’s stability.
Rob added “We’re sorry for any inconvenience this causes and would like to thank visitors for their patience whilst this vital work takes place.”