On the outskirts of Thriplow lies a wood known as Newditch Plantation. It was originally planted in the late 18th century, at a time when drainage ditches were being dug around the estate known as The Bury. Since that time, additional land has been acquired and further tree planting has taken place; most notably between 1990 and 1994, when over two thousand new trees were planted by the owner of The Bury at that time, the late Sir Patrick Browne.
The 9 hectare (about 22 acres) wood is an important habitat in an area of South Cambridgeshire with little in the way of woodland cover. It is comprised mainly of deciduous trees, including beech, hazel, oak, horse chestnut, ash and willow. Elderberry and hawthorn provide cover at a lower level. In spring, large areas of the woodland floor are covered in snowdrops. The remains of the original drainage ditches can still be seen, and there are two ponds and an area of open pasture within the bounds. Needless to say, the wood provides refuge to a variety of birds and mammals.
In 2001 large areas of the wood were flooded, resulting in a significant number of trees being lost. The effects of this flood are still being felt, with older trees continuing to die. To compensate, replanting with native trees and shrubs has occurred in many areas throughout the wood.
In 2005, Newditch Plantation was made a Charitable Trust (Reg Charity No 1107652) by Lady Pauline Browne, with the aim of managing it for wildlife. Trustees with skills in woodland management and wildlife were appointed and a ten year plan was drawn up.
As well as replanting, a range of other work is underway in Newditch Plantation. This includes formative pruning of the younger trees, the control of Himalayan balsam and the protection of trees against deer and rabbit damage (......you’d think they’d be grateful wouldn’t you?). Future projects include the placement of bat and bird boxes and the introduction of native wild flowers to the meadow. In addition, the trustees are looking to obtain grants to enable more significant work, such as the relining of one of the ponds. It is also hoped that a new survey of the flora and fauna of the wood will be implemented together with a photographic record of the wood throughout the year.
Public access to the wood is available only by prior agreement with the trustees, and any contributions to the Charity are welcome.
In June 2010 we received further funding from the Thriplow Daffodil Weekend Trust. This has allowed us to purchase a brushcutter which is being put to good use in cutting back acres of Himalayan Balsam. This is a very invasive species which allows very little to grow below it. As well as cutting back, hand pulling to take up the entire plant has also been taking place, especially in the more confined areas. It's good exercise for the arms and back!
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