Glorious Summer Days!

As Chief Executive of this wonderful open space, it was a joy to see so many people out on the Commons enjoying the glorious weather over the weekend.  But as I sit here in my office, reaching for a jumper and looking out at the rain steadily pouring down and dripping off the trees, those two summery days are already a fading memory.

Situated as we are within an urban environment, and with so many people living without immediate access to a garden, the Commons offers the chance for everyone to enjoy a little slice of the countryside close to home.  Who doesn't enjoy sitting outside with a picnic and a glass of wine!?  

Barbeques, however, are a very different matter and they are not permitted on the Commons for very good reason. 

On a dry summer's day, a smouldering barbeque left unattended or a stray spark can very quickly set light to grassland or heathland and in minutes an area of vital and nationally important habitat can be destroyed, along with the wildlife it supports, often taking years to recover.  In extreme cases, a fire can completely destroy habitats because of the changes it can make to the soil and in allowing the introduction of alien species.

Equally damaging is a barbeque lit on grass as it can cause deep and unsightly scaring which is both expensive and time consuming to repair.  The photographs below show how the  the damage caused from such a barbeque at our Playing Fields this weekend.

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We want everyone to come and enjoy the Commons, but please be responsible and don't light barbeques on this special and unique site.

 

Simon Lee, Chief Executive