Future of ancient woodland near Brookmans Park safeguarded
THE future of a popular nature reserve has been safeguarded after responsibility for its upkeep was transferred to a local wildlife trust. Gobions Wood, between
THE future of a popular nature reserve has been safeguarded after responsibility for its upkeep was transferred to a local wildlife trust.
Gobions Wood, between Brookmans Park and Potters Bar, has been looked after by Gobions Woodland Trust since 1985.
But on Friday, after seven years of discussions, the 45 hectare woodland was officially handed over to the St Albans-based Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust (HMWT).
Judy Adams, chief executive of HMWT, said: "We are really thrilled to be taking on the responsibility for this special place and are especially grateful for the commitment, inspiration and good work undertaken by the Gobions Woodland Trust over the years.
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"We are proud to have this opportunity to take up the baton of their efforts and look forward to working with them and local people to manage this lovely nature reserve into the future."
Wood trustee Bernard Spatz said: "We're delighted to have secured the future of Gobions Wood as a nature reserve and public resource.
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"Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust's proven commitment to managing land for people and wildlife means we are confident the wood is in safe hands."
Among the VIP guests at the ceremony was Welwyn Hatfield deputy mayor Kim Langley.
She said: "It looks like a very strong partnership between the Gobions Woodland Trust and the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.
"It is totally apparent that they will have a long and productive working relationship."
She added: "It will benefit everybody in the borough."
The reserve, which is home to a wide range of invertebrates and small mammals, consists mostly of ancient woodland and also contains the remains of the 18th century pleasure gardens of Gubbins House, designed by George II's royal gardener.
