Mude Valley
An urban wildlife corridor
made up of Mudeford and Peregrine Woods and designated as a Site of Nature
Conservation Interest (SNCI).
Site Description
The Mude Valley is a 17.5 hectare site that is situated to the east of
the borough, following the course of the river Mude from Somerford to the
north and Mudeford to the south. The area comprises of a variety of natural
habitats from woodland and grassland to the river and associated wetlands.
It also includes amenity areas and is surrounded by extensive urban development.
The site was granted SNCI status in January 2000.
Historical
Information
The first recorded use of this site is thought
to have been by monks who were then based at the site of the former Somerford
Grange. It is suggested that a pond on the site was used for the farming of
carp. More recently the site formed part of the Christchurch Airfield, which
was built on surrounding agricultural land and linked to the adjacent De
Havilland aircraft factory. The airfield was in use until the early
1960's and following its departure, housing began to built on the site.
The current boundaries have remained un-altered since the mid 1980s.
Environmental
Information
The diversity of habitats within a relatively small area has resulted in
a rich variety of plant communities. Over 315 separate species have been
recorded since 1990. Species of particular local interest include Bearded
Couch, Short Fruited Willowherb, Intermediate Polypody (listed as uncommon
in the area) and Cyperus Sedge (listed as rare to the area). Two nationally
scarce species, Clustered Clover and Suffocated Clover, are also present.
The presence of a range of water features
benefits a number of groups, particularly invertebrates such as dragonflies and
damselflies. The attractive Banded Demoiselle can often been seen around the
banks of the river in early summer. Butterflies are also well represented
with 19 species, including the relatively uncommon White Letter Hairstreak.
Over 47 species of birds have been recorded
for the site, including Song Thrush and Bullfinch, both classified on the red
list as birds of conservation concern. The river itself contains a rich variety
of aquatic invertebrates and supports fish species such as Stone Loach,
Bullhead, Eel and Trout. The angling pond is fished by Mudeford Wood
Angling Club (day tickets available) and contains a wide selection of coarse
fish, including Perch, Bream and Common Carp.
Other Information
The whole area is a designated Public Open
Space therefore giving unrestricted public access. The proximity of large
housing estates, presence of a community centre and the use of the site as a
cut through increase public pressure on the site.
lve any concerns or problems. The latter consists of representatives of users
group and the council. Nea Meadows is recognised for good management and has recently received
a "best environmental initiative" award in the regional heat
of the Britain in Bloom competition.