A partnership of six councils has come together to support the purchase of a nature reserve and protect it as open space for the community. 

Surrey County Council, supported by funding from Hampshire County Council, Guildford Borough Council, Waverley Borough Council, Rushmoor Borough Council and Farnham Town Council, has bought Tice’s Meadow near Badshot Lea – on the outskirts of Farnham. 

The land is 55 hectares (137 acres) of former quarry which is now fully restored as a nature reserve. It has been acquired from Hanson UK, and will become part of the Surrey County Council countryside estate. 

Tice’s Meadow provides the opportunity for a circular walk, with footpath links to Tongham Pools and the Blackwater Valley giving the opportunity for visitors to explore wildlife and the natural environment. There is a high biodiversity value from the new wetland, woodland and grasslands. 

The long-term management plan for the site will be led by Surrey County Council together with its partners and stakeholders to support the development and maintenance of grasslands and wetland areas. 

Councillor Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council, said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to lead a partnership with five other councils and Hanson UK to ensure the future of Tice’s Meadow’s as a nature reserve and open space for the community. This really shows the strength of working together and the benefits we can deliver for our residents. I look forward to continuing this partnership and working with volunteers over the coming years to enhance Tice’s Meadow as a thriving wildlife habitat. I also hope local people will visit the site and engage with the natural environment to support their health and wellbeing.” 

Posted from Surrey News