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Orchids will bloom again at a site in Cullingworth.

The site containing orchids had been regularly checked by BUWG to monitor any threat from the planned development of the site.

In late 2014 the whole area, containing the orchids was painstakingly moved to a prepared area nearby. The new location is likely to be relatively undisturbed for the foreseeable future.

Cometh the hour

Cometh the man

From Nottingham

This project was planned and delivered by Mark Woods - a Nottingham based Chartered Ecologist, with a particular interest in botany. 

Mark was first involved with the site in 2006 when his company was asked by a property developer to provide ecological advice for use in the planning process.

Planning permission was granted in 2009 with the proviso that the area of wildlife interest be retained. Identified as.of particular interest were Common Spotted Orchids, Common Blue Butterflies, and Bee Orchids

Mark’s advice was that, if retained, the site - which was only about the size of a tennis court -would be at risk. Reviewing the possible options, the plan to translocate the entire area to a suitable alternative site was accepted.

Acceptance was helped by the fact that Mark had planned and supervised successful translocation of sites before.

The receptor site (which bordered an area used for tipping waste) was prepared to receive the translocated habitat.

The receptor site is larger than the original site, and contains a pond.

Preparation involved confirming matching habitat by soil testing, killing off plants already present, and removing any which sprouted later.

Unlike his previous experiences where the turf was stable, Mark found the soil at Cullingworth to be frIable, falling apart as soon as lifted.

The team doing the work transferred donor material straight to the receptor site in order to reduce damage.

Judging success of the process involves repeated surveys of flora and fauna before and after the move. 

Short term care of the site rests with the planners and developers. 

Discussion on long term supervision is underway. Meanwhile there is a chance for local volunteers to become, and remain, involved.

View the site and meet the ecologist on Wednesday 6 July – see summer programme for details.

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