Footbridges removed (click here for larger image)

Two footbridges on a path leading from Gobions Open Space to Gobions Woodland have been removed.

The two bridges at the south end of the path, which is just east of the Leach Fields, were removed today.

Walkers who are unable to cross the small streams may have to find another route.

Earlier, bulldozers were used to pile earth and brambles against various access points to Leach Fields.

The future of the area has been uncertain since the turn of the year after Leach Homes refused to extend the lease on the land.

Footbridges removed (click here for larger image)

Gobions Woodland Trust (GWT) had been renting the land for use as a nature conservation area for the benefit of wildlife and people.

A number of local residents have written to the council this morning requesting that a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is placed on the mature oaks and elms in the Leach Fields, part of Wildlife Site 150.

The letter claims that the elms are probably unique in Hertfordshire.

According to one of those to write, "the reason for the urgency is that Leach Homes has just begun sealing off entrances to the fields and begun excavation work."

An oak in Leach Fields (click here for larger image)

The images show the trees that the author feels need protecting. If you share these concerns you can express them by contacting:

Development Control Section
Welwyn Hatfield Council
The Campus
Welwyn Garden City
AL8 6AE
01707 357000
Email Welwyn Hatfield Council.

There are also concerns about other wildlife issues.

Elms in Leach Fields (click here for larger image)

Leach Fields are part of the Moffats Meadows wildlife site, WS150, as designated in the Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council district plan.

They have been part of the regular surveys of butterflies that recorded such rare species as the White Letter Hairstreak.

Grass snakes, a protected species, have also been recorded, along with more than 100 species of native grasses and flowers.

One local resident has raised wildlife concerns after discovering that a pond in the north west corner of Leach Fields has been cut into.

You can discuss the Leach Fields in this site's forum.

24 March 2009