Issue - meetings

A report to update the Joint Management Committee on the progress of matters considered previously and the activities of the Volunteer Groups.

Update from Nonsuch Watch

Frances Wright from Nonsuch Watch briefed the Committee on a report from the University of Exeter and the BTO regarding the health benefits of birdwatching not just as a hobby but also being around them.  It was noted that unfortunately in Nonsuch Park some species of birds had declined and she hoped that requirements of those which need each kind of habitat would be taken in account.

Bill Downey of Butterfly Conservation has submitted a list of butterflies seen on the surveys done in the main park last year.  The main triumph was finding the White Letter Hairstreak in the park, the previous siting had been in 1997.  It was a rare species and its presence was due to the remaining stands of Elm and the Wych Elm trees.

Sometime during this year a biologist, Dr. June Chatfield was intending to have a close look at the lichens in the park, which were good indicators of air quality.

Update from Nonsuch Voles

It was noted that the Nonsuch Voles continued to be extremely busy and active in and around the Park as borne out in their extensive report which detailed some of the activities undertaken during the period January to end of March, which clocked up 973 volunteer hours. 

The Chairman expressed thanks on behalf of the Committee for all the hard work and efforts of the Nonsuch Voles.

In addition Paul Airey, Chair of Nonsuch Voles reported that the planning application for the Shelter had been submitted.  They also gave an update on damage to plants and brickwork due to vandalism.

Update from Friends of Nonsuch

Gerald Smith of Friends of Nonsuch circulated photographs of the unveiling of the new seat in the formal gardens which was attended by the Farmer family who donated the seat to commemorate their relatives, brothers Charles and Harry Farmer, soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War.

Surrey County Council Members’ Allocation Fund

The Committee was pleased to receive details of the successful bid for notice boards, bird boxes hazel sapling and yew shrubs and expressed thanks to Councillor John Beckett for his support.

It was agreed that Samantha Whitehead and Councillor Graham Dudley would liaise regarding the arrangements for a press event to highlight the new dementia friendly signs.